When Memphis went dark, community members brought the light: ‘We keep ourselves safe’
Summary
A strong storm hit Memphis, Tennessee on August 22, causing $18 million in damage and leaving over 100,000 people without power. Community members and local groups worked together to provide food, cooling centers, and supplies while official relief efforts were set up.Key Facts
- The storm lasted about 30 minutes but caused major damage and widespread power outages.
- Over 100,000 Memphis residents lost electricity, with temperatures reaching about 91°F (33°C) days after the storm.
- Amber Sherman, a local organizer, helped coordinate relief and shared updates with the community.
- Memphis opened several cooling centers and community centers for residents to get food, water, and charge devices.
- The city created MemphisCares, a program to support residents with up to $100,000 for groceries and food aid.
- The MemphisCares hotline opened more than a week after the storm, and funds were quickly used up due to high demand.
- Community leaders and business owners worked quickly to provide generators and supplies when government help was delayed.
- Similar power outages occurred in Gary, Indiana, another majority-Black city, raising concerns about infrastructure in such communities.
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