Greensburg’s Transformation: A Tornado’s Destruction Leads to a Renewable Future

The small town of Greensburg, Kansas, was nearly wiped off the map by a catastrophic EF-5 tornado on May 4, 2007. This devastating event claimed the lives of 10 individuals and left over 60 wounded, while obliterating 95% of the town in Kiowa County.

Tom and Dea Corns, who lost their home that day, still remember the terror vividly. "It was like a helicopter was inside our house, tearing everything apart," Dea recalled.

However, what seemed like a tragic fate for Greensburg turned into an opportunity for reinvention. Situated in conservative Kansas, the town embraced an eco-friendly future. Now, wind power supplies all of its electricity, complemented by solar panels on numerous rooftops.

A Community Rises Stronger

Dea Corns proudly reflects on Greensburg's resilience, "Our story is now one of a rural community that rose from adversity, becoming stronger and better."

According to Mayor Matt Christenson, Greensburg is now home to individuals with a pioneering spirit. He highlights that sustainable infrastructure in communities offers both ecological and economic long-term benefits.

In the past decade, Greensburg has experienced only a minuscule rise in electricity costs — once, and by just half a cent. This minor increase occurred in 2021, a consequence of an ice storm, raising the price from 12 cents to 12.5 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Community Buy-In on Going Green

Mayor Christenson notes that convincing residents to adopt green practices wasn't daunting. Instead of enforcing strict building codes, the town collaborated with its residents, highlighting the practical advantages of sustainability, thus fostering a cooperative approach.

Yet, the town faces familiar challenges of rural America—young people leaving for opportunities elsewhere. Katelynn Alderfer, after completing her education, felt compelled to return to her family’s farm, inspired by Greensburg’s renewal.

Alderfer emphasizes the town as a model for others facing similar circumstances. "A shared disaster unites us, but we seldom dwell on it," she expressed.

Though Dea Corns reminisces about the town’s past, she confidently states, "Given a choice between old and new Greensburg, I would choose our renewed town every time." She added, "We hold immense pride in what our town has become."