The 1927 Tornado
On May 9, 1927, a devastating tornado tore through downtown Poplar Bluff, forever changing the landscape of our community
Research in Progress: We are actively researching and verifying details about the 1927 tornado. This page is subject to updates and corrections as we uncover new information.
A Day That Changed Everything
At 3:17 PM on May 9, 1927, a catastrophic tornado struck Poplar Bluff, Missouri, leaving an indelible mark on the community's history. The twister carved a path of destruction through the heart of the city, forever altering the landscape and the lives of its residents.
The Devastation by the Numbers
- Time: 3:17 PM
- Duration: Approximately one minute
- Fatalities: 82 lives lost in Poplar Bluff (10 additional deaths southwest of the city)
- Injuries: Hundreds injured
- Damage: Property damage estimated at over $4,000,000
- Path: Struck first on South Fifth Street, curved east then north through the business district, crossed the river near Vine Street bridge
The tornado seemed to strike first on South Fifth Street, curving slightly to the east and then north through the business section of the city. It crossed the river near the Vine Street bridge, wrecking several buildings and many homes. The duration of the tornado has been estimated at about one minute—sixty seconds that would change Poplar Bluff forever.
Learn More: Visit the Poplar Bluff Museum Tornado Exhibit or view the memorial across from the Black River Coliseum
Further Reading — Local Author Recommendation
Poplar Bluff Tornado: May 9, 1927
by Katie Wylie Ray
A highly recommended read by a local author. Copies are available on Amazon or directly from the Poplar Bluff Museum — proceeds support the museum.
Purchase on Amazon →Disclaimer: The tornado information presented on this page is based on our own research and does not necessarily reflect the contents of this book.
Historical Source
Information on this page is based on historical accounts from History of Butler County Missouri by David Bruce Deem, Probate Judge, Butler County, MO. Additional research and verification ongoing.
View original source document →Sites Impacted by the Tornado
Explore the historic locations that were damaged or destroyed
Community Memories & Stories
Stories shared by community members about the 1927 tornado
Do You Have a 1927 Tornado Story?
Did a family member survive the storm? Did you find a photo or letter? Share your memory and help preserve this piece of Poplar Bluff history.
Share Your Tornado Memory