Severe Storms and Tornadoes Strike St. Louis, Leaving Five Dead

ST. LOUIS — Severe storms, including at least one tornado, wreaked havoc in the St. Louis area on Friday, leaving five people dead and many others injured. The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado around 2:30 p.m. as the storm moved through neighborhoods, leading to significant damage in Clayton, University City, and the Central West End.

St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer announced the fatalities at a press briefing, describing the situation as ‘devastating.’ Over 5,000 homes lost power, and a curfew was implemented for Districts 5 and 6 until 6 a.m. Saturday to ensure public safety. Spencer emphasized the need for the community to come together during this crisis, stating, ‘Tonight, we are focused on life.’

BJC Healthcare reported that St. Louis Children’s Hospital treated 15 storm-related patients, while Barnes-Jewish Hospital received 20 to 30 patients, with some in critical condition. City officials urged residents to avoid the roads due to hazardous conditions caused by downed trees and weakened infrastructure.

Witness accounts described a chaotic scene as the tornado approached. Aesha Moorehead, an assistant property manager at Roosevelt Town Apartments, recounted the moment the storm struck. ‘We felt the lights go off, and then the building shook, and then all hell broke loose,’ she said.

Damage was widespread, with significant destruction reported on North Euclid Avenue in the Central West End. Fred Falker, a local resident, noted, ‘We’re probably still a little bit in shock.’ Community members banded together to assist with cleanup, utilizing chainsaws and other tools to remove debris from the streets.

In Westminster Place, branches fell on cars, and many residents were left without power. Maggie Burnworth, a McPherson Avenue resident, described her decision to flee to family in Belleville after losing electricity. ‘I’m just glad to be safe,’ she remarked.

The Missouri History Museum and the St. Louis Zoo closed their doors following the storm. Zoo officials assured the public that all animals were safe. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Public Schools district began assessing damage to multiple schools, including Hickey Elementary and Soldan High School.

The National Weather Service continues to investigate the impact of the storms while warnings remained active across various regions. St. Louis remains under a tornado watch until 7 p.m., and authorities are advising residents to stay vigilant.