"We didn’t even see it coming. There was very little warning, aside from a power flicker and our phones going off. I wasn’t sure we weren’t in a tornado, I’m still not sure" - Citizen of Quapaw Township
On Friday, August 16, 2024, a seemingly peaceful evening in Quapaw was interrupted by a fast moving and powerful storm. The day had been hot but calm. The community settled into their usual routines many unaware of what was headed their way. The tranquility was broken as the lights flickered and then went out completely. A sudden alert flashed across mobile screens, urging residents to seek shelter immediately.
The winds roared with an alarming intensity, reaching speeds of 80 mph and greater in some areas. Then, as quickly as the storm appeared, it was gone. The night grew quiet again. Distant sounds of thunder echoed across the sky, which was eerily oversaturated with a shade of green. As residents emerged from their houses to assess the damage, they were met with different sights. For some, monstrous trees enveloped their homes - the roofs missing off homes of their neighbors. For others, everything seemed to be in the same place - a can of bug spray remained on the front porch.
Reports began to swirl about the possibility of an EF1 tornado, though no official confirmation was available and reports since have been quick to dispel. Waves of the storm would pass throughout the night, as members of the community sat in their homes, devoid of most sounds after the power went out.
Waves of the storm would pass throughout the night, as members of the community sat in their homes, devoid of most sounds after the power went out. The community, though shaken, found a flicker of hope in the knowledge that their electric company, Liberty Utilities, was working tirelessly to restore power to approximately 6,000 affected homes across four states.
The dawn of Saturday brought a sobering reality for the little town of Quapaw and others like it. The storm had left behind a scene of considerable devastation. Yet, in the face of adversity, their spirit shone brightly. Without missing a beat, the Quapaw Nation's authorities and departments sprang into action.
The Quapaw Services Authority led the charge, coordinating efforts to assess the damage and prioritize areas in need of immediate attention. The Forestry Department, equipped with chainsaws and heavy machinery, began the painstaking process of clearing fallen trees and debris from the roads. Meanwhile, the Maintenance Department and the Quapaw Nation Department of Public Safety worked alongside them, ensuring that critical infrastructure and public spaces were swiftly restored.
By Saturday afternoon, the community had rallied around these efforts. Neighbors emerged from their homes, joining the cleanup efforts, highlighting what it means to be a community. Volunteers, young and old, wielded rakes and brooms, clearing smaller debris and helping those who were unable to do so themselves.
Local businesses and organizations provided even more heavy machinery in support.
Amidst the hum of chainsaws and generators, the streets of Quapaw began to show signs of life again. The collaboration between the Quapaw Nation’s departments and its residents demonstrated the true essence of community. The storm had tested their endurance and unity, but it also revealed their strength and determination.
As the days passed and power was gradually restored, the scars of the storm remained evident, but so did the profound sense of being thankful within the community. Thankful to those who went out of their way. Thankful to those who went above and beyond to help their neighbors in their time of need. The storm of August 16th had come and gone, but it left behind a strengthened community, bound by a shared experience of resilience and support.
In the heart of Quapaw, the storm had been met with unwavering solidarity and collective action. Residents spoke of past storms and promised to add this one to memory. Storms like that of August 16, are not all that uncommon in these parts of the country. They are, however, reminders that even in today’s age of technology and lack of in person communication, a group of people can do wonderous things in the face of adversity.