August 8, 2021

Looking Back: One Year Since the Derecho

It’s been one year since the derecho ripped through campus and the greater Corridor community.

While our campus was left with 300 shattered and uprooted trees, 100% of our buildings damaged, and nine days without electricity, it was the resilient spirit of our community that kept our spirits high and chainsaws plentiful. As we reflect on this day one year ago, we remember the devastation and hurt the storm brought to many, but most of all, we remember the generosity of our city and the way we came together.

Here’s a look back on the days following the storm at Mount Mercy:

August 10, 2020 | Derecho with 140 mph winds hit Cedar Rapids and the Mount Mercy campus. Thankfully, our employees and students were safe with no injuries.

August 17 & 18, 2020 | The community, many with their own homes and yards in shambles, gathered to clean up campus.

August 19, 2020 | Power returned to campus.

September 7, 2020 | After being delayed weeks, MMU welcomed students back to campus for the first day of classes.