When Beryl moved through Nacogdoches County in July 2024, the Appleby area experienced the county's most significant effects.
Numerous homes and at least one business were severely damaged. Strong winds removed most of the roofs from neighboring homes, allowing rain to soak furniture, clothing and other belongings. Downed trees and scattered debris blocked roads, while hundreds of customers remained without power.
As the immediate danger passed, Nacogdoches County moved into the cleanup phase. Crews removed roadway debris, documented damage for state officials and worked to restore access. A disaster declaration had been signed after officials began receiving reports showing the extent of the destruction in Appleby.
This was not a simple overnight comeback. It was the more honest form of disaster recovery, families saving what they could while public agencies and local workers restored the systems around them.
In East Texas, recovery is often measured one road, one roof and one family at a time.