You’ll Never Forget the Story of This Popular Hill in Nebraska
Most people in Nebraska know the story about the Night Of The Twisters: on June 3, 1980, a massive supercell moved over Grand Island and produced seven tornadoes that swallowed up much of the city. More than 200 people were injured, six were killed, and the damage was estimated to be almost $300 million (in 1980 dollars). Yet out of that tragedy, the town rose and quickly rebuilt. Today, you would hardly know that such a horrific event ever took place here…except for one reminder, which the town has turned into a positive for everyone.
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Tornado Hill, in Ryder Park, is one of the greatest spots for sledding, snowboarding, and biking in the whole city.
Eventually, the mound was covered over with dirt to create a solid hill. At some point well after it was originally finished, additional dirt was added to the mound to ensure a greater degree of debris cover and a much taller hill. The tall "mountain" stands out among the rest of Grand Island's landscape - and it draws all kinds of adventurers.
Although many of the people who use the hill for recreation are too young to remember the terrible events that made it possible, the city has never forgotten the tragedy. They’ve healed, rebuilt, and moved on, but they will always remember the night of the twisters and how it changed the landscape of the town – figuratively and literally – forever.
Address: Grand Island, NE 68803, USA
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As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
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