It is hard to imagine a world without a Mike Nelson or National Weather Service app to warn you of any upcoming severe weather… however, over 100 years ago, this was the (sometimes deadly) reality.

On a seemingly normal May afternoon in 1916, the small Eastern Plains town of Yuma was struck with a large and unexpected cyclone that not only damaged numerous homes and businesses, but injured dozens as well. (Due to a lack of information on the storm, we are unable to report an exact death toll.) Even though this devastating storm has been seemingly forgotten by history (and because of the lack of technology to communicate breaking news and stories during the early 20th century), pictures and information are hard to come by; however, thanks to our friends at History Colorado, we are able to share a few photos of the destructive aftermath:

"View of the debris caused by a tornado in Yuma (Yuma County), Colorado. Shows men, an overturned safe, a wagon on its side, bricks and a damaged barn."
History Colorado/2002.16.33
"...a street full of debris, wood panels, downed trees, an automobile and brick buildings..."
History Colorado/2002.16.31

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"...debris, gable-roofed buildings, downed electricity or telephone poles and water..."
History Colorado/2002.16.32
"...women, a gable-roofed house and downed trees."
History Colorado/2002.16.34

In the last 100 years, the town of Yuma has not only rebuilt and recovered, but has grown to a population of just over 3,500.

Do you know anyone who lived through this storm? If so, do you have any of their stories to share?

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