Severe Storms Leave Thousands in St. Louis Without Power

ST. LOUIS, MO — Severe storms struck the St. Louis area on May 16, 2025, leaving more than 100,000 residents without power. The storms brought tornadoes, strong winds, and hail the size of baseballs, causing significant destruction across the region.

Power outages were reported around 4 p.m., with over 70,000 buildings affected in St. Louis City and surrounding areas, including St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and northern Jefferson County. About 1,500 outages were also reported on the Illinois side, from Belleville to Alton.

The National Weather Service issued multiple tornado warnings starting at noon, including confirmed tornado touchdowns in Clayton and near Des Arc. Meteorologists had recognized the area as facing a level 4 severe weather threat due to conditions that favored significant storms.

Local emergency services quickly mobilized to respond to the damage, which included fallen trees and debris blocking roads. Rescue operations were launched to aid those trapped in collapsed buildings. Shelters and cooling centers were opened to help the displaced.

In St. Louis City, approximately 30,000 buildings lost power, while 40,000 outages were reported in St. Louis County. Utility company Ameren Missouri is working to repair lines but faced hurdles due to extensive damage. Traffic lights were knocked out, further complicating the situation on already hazardous roads.

Structural damage was significant, with reports of collapsed buildings and shattered windows. In one instance, a building on Clarence Avenue in St. Louis City collapsed, requiring urgent rescue operations.

Hail damage across the region was notable, with reports of stones up to 2 inches wide in Maryland Heights and Clayton, which shattered windows and caused extensive vehicle damage. Local farmers are concerned about crop losses due to hail damage in southeast regions.

The Metro East region in Illinois experienced equal devastation, with tornado warnings extending to counties like Calhoun and Jersey, where homes and businesses were severely impacted.

Amid the destruction, community members began cleanup efforts, demonstrating resilience and unity. Local organizations quickly mobilized to provide assistance, including meals and housing for those affected.

The storms underscored the destructive potential of severe weather, with emergency responders and local governments now focused on recovery and rebuilding efforts as residents start to assess the damage.