Two Years Later: Wetumpka Rises from the Rubble with Bright Future Ahead After Tornado

BY SARAH STEPHENS

ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS

Strolling through Historic downtown Wetumpka in Elmore County now, a newcomer would have little idea of the destruction which occurred two years ago today.

A tornado that destroyed historical structures, business, meeting places and homes, but fortunately took no lives, left incredible devastation in its wake. To say that Wetumpka has risen like a Phoenix from the flames is a huge understatement.

Area residents who were familiar with the skyline that included the steeple of the First Presbyterian Church feared it was changed forever. But the church came back strong, thanks to its parishioners and donations. Today the church is rebuilt and beautiful, staying true to its original design.

The Wetumpka Police Department was destroyed that day, but it now has a beautiful new location as well. What could not be saved was taken down, but more was repaired than lost. And the rebuilding continues.

In just two years the spirit of Wetumpka has reared its head proudly. There is a new life in downtown, new businesses, HGTV is wrapping up filming on the Hometown Takeover which will be featured soon nationwide. Renovations to downtown are absolutely fantastic, the leadership has stepped up and organizations like the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce are leading the charge for a brighter future than some would have imagined just two years ago.

But that day proved another thing. Wetumpka didn’t stand alone.

Perhaps one of my clearest memories of that day was listening to my police scanner as the storm headed our way. That first indication that Wetumpka was about to take a hit stays in my mind. The Emergency Management Agency, Wetumpka officials, and first responders from all around our area jumped into action quickly.

Within minutes police, fire and other emergency officials were racing to the scene to help their brothers and sisters in Wetumpka. There are so many stories from that day that perhaps will never be fully told. But when the call for help went out, it was answered in abundance. Officials worked through the night clearing debris, making sure no one was in the rubble.

No one wanted this tornado. But what could have been a horrible event economically long-term somehow ignited a flame in Wetumpka. That flame continues to burn brightly, and we are excited about the future.

The Elmore County Commission sent out this statement concerning the two-year anniversary:

“Today marks two years since the tornado of January 19, 2019 impacted the City of Wetumpka and portions of Elmore County. The Elmore County Commission is thankful for the efforts of the many in our county that have assisted through response, recovery and the restoration of our communities.”

Where were you that day? Do you have a story to tell? Please email us at editorsarah@yahoo.com  or add comments on this post on our Facebook page under Elmore/Autauga News.