Tempe rebuilds one year after historic microburst

One year after a powerful microburst with winds exceeding 90 mph tore through Tempe, residents and city officials are reflecting on widespread damage and a gradual recovery. The storm toppled hundreds of trees, damaged homes and businesses, displaced residents and left about 30,000 people without power; some apartment buildings and commercial properties required extensive repairs. City crews cleared debris, while community groups, residents and public agencies helped people recover, including through Small Business Administration loans for property repairs. Tempe is also rebuilding its lost tree canopy, planting new trees and using lumber from fallen trees to support further planting. Officials and residents say the community’s cooperation—and the fact that no one was killed or injured—stands out amid the destruction.