In the wee hours of the morning on Feb. 29, a large storm system moved through the Midwest. One of its stops: the entertainment resort town of Branson, Mo. — the self-proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World" — where a tornado touched down in the city's historic downtown, injuring at least 33 people. In the immediate aftermath of the storm, it was estimated that five or six of Branson's more than 50 music theaters, 12 to 15 of its more than 200 hotels, and five or six of its more than 100 attractions sustained "significant" damage.
"We are extremely thankful that there was no reported loss of life due to the tornado that struck Branson on the morning of Feb. 29, and our thoughts and prayers go out to those families who did lose loved ones as a result of this large storm system that affected much of the Midwest," said City Administrator Dean Kruithof.
Despite the damage, recovery in Branson is in full swing less than two weeks after the storm, according to reports from the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.
"The resilience of the Ozark people, their faith and steadfast nature will shine through this unfortunate situation, and Branson will rebuild and recover quickly," the CVB said in a statement.
According to tourism officials, Branson area golf courses were "virtually unscathed" by the storm. The Branson Airport also was unaffected, and flights are arriving and departing "with no delays."
The Branson Convention Center and its attached Hilton hotel weren't so lucky: Because of storm damage, they're currently closed for repairs and won't be open again for another 30 to 60 days. Reads a statement from the Branson CVB: "Meetings and conventions that were scheduled for the Branson Convention Center in upcoming weeks are being contacted regarding relocation in the area, many to Chateau on the Lake, which sustained no damage as a result of the storm, or The Hilton Promenade, which sustained some damage but is still open to guests."
Said Mayor Raeanne Presley, "It is humbling to face the power of a destructive force such as this tornado. Yet this is exactly the time our community has gathered their strength to rise above daily chores — to volunteer, donate, work long hours in cold and heat. While I am so sad for the loss of property, I am heartened to know our Branson will rise up stronger than ever."