The Miracle Files: Miracle in the News – F5 Tornado Hits Daycares | Ep. 38

Release Date: July 14, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 38 of The Miracle Files, hosted by Holly and Emily from Radio America, the duo delves into a harrowing yet uplifting true story of divine intervention amidst one of nature's fiercest storms. Titled "Miracle in the News: F5 Tornado Hits Daycares," this episode recounts the events of an F5 tornado that struck Moore, Oklahoma, in 2013, highlighting miraculous survivals and the unwavering faith of those involved.

The Devastating Tornado

The episode opens with Holly expressing her deep personal connection to the subject, revealing that her son resides in the vicinity of Moore, Oklahoma.

Holly: "Yes, it is. I actually have a son, McKay, and his little family who live in a suburb of Oklahoma City. So yeah, this one, this story was a little extra scary for me, sure." [03:09]

On May 20, 2013, a violent F5 tornado, with wind speeds ranging between 261 and 318 miles per hour, touched down in Moore, a densely populated suburb of Oklahoma City. The tornado rapidly evolved, prompting the highest level of tornado alert, a tornado emergency, signaling a severe threat to human life.

Daycare Centers in the Path of Destruction

Three daycares were directly in the path of the tornado: Abby Larsson's daycare, Kids USA Daycare, and Agape Land Learning Center. Abby had recently fulfilled her lifelong dream of owning a daycare, making the impending disaster even more personal.

Holly: "Abby Larsson had finally saved up enough money to buy a daycare, which was her lifelong dream." [04:34]

As the tornado approached, Abby and her assistant Heather Walker swiftly enacted their emergency preparedness plans. Despite the absence of a basement or storm shelter—a common oversight even in tornado-prone Oklahoma—the staff took decisive action to protect the children.

Heather Walker (Abby's Assistant): "I passed them our little nap mats that they actually take naps on. And I had them put them over the children. And then we were all locked and cuddled together." [04:58]

Miraculous Survivals Amidst Chaos

Tragically, the tornado claimed 24 lives in Moore. However, within the chaos, miraculous events unfolded at the three daycares. Of particular note is the story of Aria Baird, a four-year-old child at Agape Land Learning Center, who was miraculously saved from the tornado's grip.

Brittany Rogers, Teacher: "The news people are saying, if you're not underground, you will not survive... This is it." [07:07]

As debris rained down and the building was torn apart, Ms. Kathy, another teacher at Agape Land, heard Aria being pulled toward the tornado. With sheer bravery, she grabbed Aria's leg, refusing to let go despite the chaos.

Ms. Kathy: "Don't let me go. I go with you." [09:15]

Brittany Rogers: "I'm very thankful for them. They risked their life to save my child. It means the world to me." [10:32]

Miraculously, no lives were lost in any of the daycares. Theteachers' quick actions and unwavering faith played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of all children present.

Ms. Kathy: "I am not an expert, but in my heart, I really believe that if they hadn't covered those children, if we hadn't covered those children, those children would be gone." [10:12]

Aftermath and Community Rebuilding

In the wake of the tornado, the community of Moore demonstrated remarkable resilience. Donations flooded in, aiding in the rebuilding of the daycares and other affected structures. Abby Larsson's daycare was restored, and significant infrastructural improvements were implemented across Oklahoma City, including the construction of storm shelters in all schools to better prepare for future tornadoes.

Holly: "God always turns, whether it's tragedies or whatever happens to us for our good. And both miracles and tragedies can be catalysts for change." [14:05]

The city’s response transformed Moore into a model of strength and preparedness, inspiring other communities to adopt similar safety measures.

Faith, Miracles, and Reflections

Throughout the episode, Holly and Emily reflect on the profound role of faith during crises. They emphasize trusting in a higher plan and recognizing divine intervention in moments of fear and uncertainty.

Holly: "Genuinely, I don't think we can second guess God. I think we just have to trust that he has a plan for each of us and that when there is divine intervention, I think we just have to praise him for it." [13:07]

Emily: "He can see the bigger picture. Like, he can just see so much more than we can." [13:33]

The hosts also highlight the heroic actions of the daycare staff, drawing parallels to other instances where individuals put themselves at risk to protect others, thereby embodying true acts of selflessness and courage.

Conclusion

Episode 38 of The Miracle Files masterfully intertwines a gripping true crime narrative with inspirational stories of faith and survival. By recounting the miraculous events during the 2013 F5 tornado in Moore, Oklahoma, Holly and Emily offer listeners a testament to the enduring power of hope, resilience, and divine intervention. This episode not only honors the heroes who acted bravely in the face of disaster but also reinforces the belief that amidst darkness, miracles and light prevail.

Notable Quotes:

• Holly: "But as I read about this tornado, amidst the tragedies, there were some absolutely incredible miracles that happened." [02:25]

• Brittany Rogers: "All I was thinking was, how is my son gonna make it without his mom." [08:24]

• Ms. Kathy: "If it weren't for Heather and Abby, I think I know the outcome would have been much different." [10:12]

For more inspiring stories and divine interventions, subscribe to The Miracle Files on your favorite podcast platform and join Holly and Emily as they uncover more of God's miracles in everyday lives.