This is the story of one of the most iconic tornado photographs of the 20th century, taken during a massive outbreak on Palm Sunday, April 11, 1965.
Coming to you from Blake Naftel, this fantastic video tells the story of one of meteorology's most famous photographs, which captured a double-funnel tornado in Dunlap, Indiana on April 11, 1965. It represents a moment of terror, fascination, and the raw power of nature. Paul Huffman, a photojournalist for the Elkhart Truth, inadvertently became a chronicler of this harrowing event. While planting roses at home, Huffman noticed the eerie calm and the absence of birds, signaling the brewing storm. His quick decision to capture the tornado's formation and devastating path showcases the vital role photographers play in documenting natural disasters. This photograph not only made international headlines but also served as a visual testament to the event's magnitude, capturing the attention and imagination of generations, with the New York Times calling it "remarkable."
As the video gets into the specifics of that fateful day, it becomes clear why this photograph is of such significance to photographers and weather enthusiasts alike. In the midst of impending danger, Huffman's priority was to capture the moment, a decision that resulted in an image encapsulating the sheer scale and ferocity of the tornado. This photograph not only captured a critical moment in natural disaster history but also illustrated the impact that a single, well-timed shot can have in conveying a powerful story. Thankfully, Huffman was not hit by the tornado.
The interview with Paul and Elizabeth Huffman offers a rare glimpse into the thoughts and emotions of a photographer in the face of a natural disaster that few people will ever have to endure. It underscores the balance between the pursuit of a career-defining shot and the very real human fears and concerns in such a situation; after all, safety should always be the first priority. Give the video above a watch for the incredible story.
Thanks for sharing; that's quite an experience they had.
My family took a direct hit from the second tornado. We lived on Main St., at the Sunnyside R.R. crossing. One of the news stations interviewed my dad. I still have the VHS tape copy. I now own a house on a slab, because I couldn't afford one with a basement, and every spring or summer storm, I feel like a sitting duck.
There used to be a small little town right down the street from me, after that day, it was completely wiped off the map.