Can You Say "Derecho"?
May 20, 2009
According to the National Weather Service, a “derecho” is a “widespread and long-lived windstorm that is associated with a band of rapidly moving showers and thunderstorms.” To the residents of Carbondale, the “derecho” that hit on May 8, 2009 was a disaster like none had ever witnessed before. Several estimates indicated the College of Agricultural Sciences was hit with over $1 million dollars in damages. The Agriculture Building sustained roof damages estimated at approximately $300,000. And University Farms lost several structures including a feed mill, service center, silos, and other farm structures.
Although the destruction was devastating, the College plans to rebuild most of the main structures. After President Obama declared the area a federal disaster area, the University is working with federal and state officials to apply for assistance with clean-up, repair, and rebuilding efforts. “Although we have experienced some devastating losses, we are looking forward to a brighter future” says Dr. Gary Minish [Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences].
- “Weather Service: Storm was a ‘Derecho’” [The Southern Illinoisan, 05/16/2009]
- “Preliminary Storm Damage Estimate is $5 Million” [The Saluki Times, 05/20/2009]
- “SIUC Community Responds to Devastating Storm” [The Saluki Times, 05/15/2009]