Thursday 28th July 2005 a tornado ripped through South Birmingham at speeds of up to 130 miles per hour injuring at least 19 people. The tornado peeled off roofs, rolled over cars, tore through walls and ripped up trees [ pics 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 ].

Mainstream media reports initially focused on the damage to Kings Heath's shopping area. An Indymedia report written by local residents shortly after the tornado reveals that some of its worst damage in Balsall Heath was initially overlooked by mainstream media. Birmingham City Council's response to the disaster has been widely criticised and there are concerns that very high levels of people in poorer areas of the city affected by the disaster aren't covered by insurance [ report and videos ].