Netflix Documentary Revives Horror of Joplin Tornado Disaster

JOPLIN, Mo. — Nearly 14 years after the catastrophic tornado tore through Joplin, a documentary revisits the horror of the 2011 EF-5 twister that devastated the city, leaving behind destruction and sorrow. The film, titled “The Twister: Caught in the Storm,” explores the personal experiences of survivors and provides a detailed account of a disaster that resulted in approximately 160 deaths.

The tornado struck on May 22, 2011, as a massive storm system moved into the area. An initial EF-0 tornado quickly escalated to an EF-5, producing winds exceeding 200 mph. According to meteorologist Doug Kahn, the twister reached nearly a mile in width, tracing a destructive 13-mile path across Joplin.

Kerry Sachetta, principal of Joplin High School at the time, reflected on the devastation, comparing it to images from World War II: “That’s really what it looked like,” he said. The twister destroyed around 30 percent of Joplin, damaging or obliterating approximately 7,500 homes.

Among the hardest hit was St. John’s Regional Medical Center, which suffered severe structural damage as hospital staff scrambled to protect patients. Debris knocked out generators and caused extensive chaos within the facility, resulting in patient casualties. Dr. Jim Riscoe described the surreal scene likening it to a nuclear disaster, stating that “cars had been thrown like playing cards.” Five patients died immediately, with others succumbing to injuries later.

The aftermath of the tornado revealed a community in crisis, facing not only fatalities but an overwhelming sense of loss. Survivors searched for loved ones amid the wreckage, while emergency services set up a makeshift morgue next to a local football stadium.

In total, 161 people lost their lives in the tornado, making it one of the deadliest in U.S. history. Among the victims was a recent high school graduate, whose body was found days later in a nearby pond. His father recalled how they kept his room preserved as a space to remember him.

The storm also devastated the local school system, forcing officials to close schools early and halt classes for a substantial recovery period. Students attended classes in temporary locations as part of the rebuilding effort, which involved significant federal funding and community contributions.

The documentary serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience displayed by the citizens of Joplin in overcoming such a tragedy. The film not only captures the disaster’s immediate impact but also celebrates the enduring spirit of the community, as reflected during the high school’s rebuilding efforts and eventual reopening.

As the 2011 Joplin tornado remains a historical marker for destruction and a testament to recovery, “The Twister: Caught in the Storm” aims to educate viewers on the importance of preparedness for such natural disasters. The film is now available for streaming on Netflix.