Trump Signs Major Disaster Aid for St. Louis Tornado Recovery

ST. LOUIS, Missouri — President Donald Trump approved a major disaster declaration on Monday for the deadly tornado that struck the St. Louis region on May 16, 2025. The declaration opens the door for millions in federal aid to help residents rebuild their homes and recover from the devastation.

Governor Mike Kehoe announced the approval on social media, thanking Trump for his leadership. Kehoe requested assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on May 25.

“I appreciate President Trump for calling me personally this evening to notify us that he has approved Missouri’s request for a major disaster declaration,” Kehoe wrote. “Missourians are grateful for the President’s leadership.”

St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer expressed her relief, highlighting that the storm may have caused up to $2 billion in damages. She called the declaration a crucial first step in unlocking federal assistance. “No city can shoulder the burden of a natural disaster the size of the tornado that hit us on May 16 alone,” Spencer said.

Local officials welcomed the declaration. U.S. Representative Wesley Bell said it “unlocks critical federal aid” needed for recovery efforts. “St. Louis is a strong, resilient community. This support will help us come back even stronger,” Bell added.

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, along with other leaders, also voiced their appreciation for the federal support. Schmitt called the aide “much, much needed,” while Wagner noted the assistance would help the hard-hit St. Louis region rebuild stronger than before.

FEMA typically assists with individual recovery efforts, providing up to $43,600 for housing and other needs per person. However, Spencer cautioned that the process could be challenging, as FEMA has faced staffing reductions.

“We’re going to be required to play an active role, and we are positioning ourselves to be ready to play that active role,” she said. Spencer also expressed a desire for Trump to visit St. Louis to witness the destruction caused by the tornado firsthand.

Kehoe’s approval included public assistance which could help local governments recoup costs related to the storm. He detailed that more than $57.9 million in expenses had already been identified for recovery.

The tornado, which cut a 22-mile path through the region, led to five fatalities and extensive damage to property. Relief from the federal government is seen as crucial in the wake of the disaster.