DOTHAN, Ala. — Business owners and organizations in the heart of Dothan are left grappling with the aftermath of an EF-1 tornado that struck the area on Monday, causing significant damage to several buildings and properties. As the community begins to recover, many are still processing the events of the powerful storm.
Patrick Anderson, owner of Southside 66, shared his experience of the storm’s arrival. “It’s a lot to deal with and a lot to process,” Anderson said. “Today, it is hard to believe we made it.” Anderson, who was inside his business with his wife and grandchild when the storm hit, recalled the terrifying moment when someone ran to his door seeking shelter. Despite hesitation due to fears that the storm’s strong winds could pull them out, Anderson decided to let the person inside, ultimately saving them from the tornado’s wrath.
The storm left a trail of destruction at Southside 66, damaging several cars that were being repaired for customers, destroying a power pole, and taking down a fence in the business’s backyard. Decking boards were also broken, further complicating the damage. Anderson now faces the daunting task of surveying the damage and managing the cleanup process while still trying to fulfill work commitments. “The biggest thing right now is cleaning up and trying to make sense of the work I’ve got on my plate already that I have to turn out and explain to the owners,” he said.
Christ Miracle Ministries, located on Selma Street, was also impacted by the storm. The building’s windows were blown out, but they have since been boarded up as part of the ongoing recovery efforts. Senior Pastor Eric Holt expressed a mixture of faith and disappointment as he reflected on the damage. “I wasn’t disappointed because this is God’s hand, but it still kind of hurts at the same time,” Holt explained. “All the work that you put in feels like it’s going down the drain, but it’s not. Everything happens for those who love the Lord.”
The church is currently working with their insurance provider to address roof damage and plans to replace the blown-out windows as part of their recovery efforts. Holt expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received from the community and emphasized their commitment to rebuilding.
Other local businesses, including a laundromat on Selma Street, have begun cleaning up their properties. Crews could be seen removing damaged roofing and replacing it with new material. Meanwhile, disaster relief teams have been on-site at the Salvation Army property on South Bell Street, clearing debris caused by fallen trees.
Despite the challenges, business owners and community leaders remain hopeful. With the cleanup well underway, Dothan’s residents are determined to recover and rebuild, one step at a time.
