As implied by the "Real Time" title, the episode reconstructs the entire event chronologically, from the initial forecasts to the tornado's formation and its 40-minute path of destruction through the densely populated city. The episode uses a combination of meteorological analysis, news broadcasts, intense storm chaser footage, and harrowing first-hand accounts from survivors to document the tornado's impact as it happened. Key events covered in the episode include the direct hits on Plaza Towers Elementary School and Briarwood Elementary School, the complete destruction of entire neighbourhoods, and the immediate, desperate search-and-rescue efforts by first responders and civilians in the storm's aftermath.