Thursday, May 18, 2023
May 20, 2013, will forever be etched in the memories of the people of Moore, Oklahoma. On that day, a devastating EF-5 tornado tore through the city, leaving a path of destruction and claiming the lives of 25 individuals.
However, in the face of unimaginable loss and devastation, the Moore community has shown incredible strength and resilience. As the 10-year anniversary of the deadly tornado approaches, Norman Regional Health System, in collaboration with the City of Moore and Moore Public Schools, is hosting a community day of healing and remembrance Friday, May 19 to share the stories and honor the courage of those affected. This event serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Moore community and their unwavering commitment to support and uplift one another.
WATCH: Moore Remembrance: 10 Years After the Storm - Friday, May 19
The Beginning
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), several supercell thunderstorms developed during the early afternoon of May 20 along a dryline in central Oklahoma. One of the storms developed near Chickasha and rapidly intensified. That storm produced a tornado that touched down at 1:56 p.m. on the west side of Newcastle.
Within minutes, the tornado rapidly intensified to an EF-5 and became extremely violent. The tornado tracked east-northeastward and headed right for the community of Moore.
Rebuilding Lives and Communities
Following the tornado's 14-mile destructive path, homes, businesses, schools, parks, farms, and even a hospital were devastated. The immediate aftermath was filled with heartache and immense challenges.
However, the people of Moore rallied together, offering support, compassion, and assistance to those affected. They stood tall, determined to rebuild their lives and their community from the ground up. It’s through their resilience and unity that the community of Moore has emerged even stronger a decade later.
Remembering the Lives Lost
As the community gathers to mark 10 years since the tornado, it’s essential to remember and honor the 25 lives tragically taken that day.
Neighbors, friends, family, colleagues of the Moore community and the children of Plaza Towers Elementary School will forever be remembered.
The remembrance event organized by Norman Regional Health System will provide a platform to share stories and pay tribute to the courage and resilience demonstrated by the victims and their families.
Through this act of remembrance, the community seeks solace and healing, ensuring that the memory of those lost will forever be cherished.
**DISCLAIMER: The images in the photo gallery may be upsetting to some viewers. The images are not graphic but do show: severe damage, destruction and rescue.
A Collaborative Effort
The healing and remembrance event would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of Norman Regional Health System, the City of Moore, and Moore Public Schools and the community partners who all helped make it possible. Thank you, Tinker Federal Credit Union, Community Coffee, First United Bank, Regal Warren Theater, Chick-fil-A Moore & Norman Main St., Classic and Mercury Press Plus for your support in making the remembrance event possible.
Together, they have worked tirelessly to create a space where the community can come together, reflect, and find strength in unity. By combining their resources, they’re fostering an environment of support and healing, acknowledging the challenges faced by the community while emphasizing the collective power of resilience.
Celebrating Strength and Resilience
Ten years have passed since that fateful day, and the Moore community has made remarkable strides in rebuilding and recovering. The scars of the tornado may still linger, but they serve as a reminder of the community's resilience and the bonds that have been forged in the face of adversity.
The strength and determination displayed by the people of Moore inspire not only their fellow Oklahomans but also individuals across the nation.
Looking Forward with Hope
As the Moore community comes together to reflect on the past, it also looks toward the future with hope. The community day of healing and remembrance is an opportunity to celebrate the progress made over the past decade and to reaffirm the commitment to supporting one another. It serves as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope can prevail, and communities can rise above the challenges they face.
The Moore community's resilience in the wake of the devastating tornado serves as an inspiration to us all. The community day of healing and remembrance organized by Norman Regional Health System, the City of Moore, and Moore Public Schools is a testament to the strength and unity that have emerged over the past ten years.
As the community gathers to reflect on the past and honor the lives lost and affected, they do so with unwavering determination, demonstrating that together, they can overcome any obstacle. Moore stands as a shining example of the power of resilience, and their story continues to inspire communities worldwide.