A tornado tore through St. Louis, Missouri, on Friday evening, leading to at least five fatalities and damaging over 5,000 buildings. The storm, which affected a major road, uprooted trees, tore off roofs, and downed power lines, also left approximately 100,000 properties without electricity. Emergency services conducted house-by-house searches in the hardest-hit neighborhoods as the local fire department reported that three individuals needed rescue when part of the Centennial Christian Church collapsed; unfortunately, one of them died.
Meteorologists from the US National Weather Service noted that the tornado touched down shortly after 2:30 PM local time near Forest Park, a significant historical area known for the St. Louis Zoo and the 1904 Olympic Games. In the aftermath, severe weather conditions were reported across Missouri and into Illinois, with radar indicating at least six other tornadoes in the region.
In response to the destruction, St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer expressed deep sorrow, stating, "Our city is grieving tonight. The loss of life and the destruction is truly, truly horrendous." A curfew was enforced from 9 PM to 6 AM in the most affected areas to minimize risks from debris and deter potential looting. The city faces substantial recovery ahead, focusing on saving lives and supporting the community in its mourning.
