Rescue operations resumed late Friday after strong storms, including a probable tornado, tore through the St. Louis area, leaving a trail of wreckage that left at least five people dead.
Emergency crews worked through the afternoon and evening to search buildings for survivors or anyone injured as high winds tore roofs from homes, shattered windows, and brought down trees and power lines across the region.
Mayor Cara Spencer described the damage as “truly devastating” and said more than 5,000 homes had been impacted. She announced that the city was declaring a state of emergency and had enacted an overnight curfew in the hardest-hit neighbourhoods to ensure public safety.
As of Friday night, around 100,000 customers remained without power, with utility crews deployed to assess and restore service.
The full extent of injuries is still being determined. Barnes-Jewish Hospital reported treating between 20 and 30 people following the storm, with several patients in serious condition. Most were expected to be released the same evening, according to hospital spokesperson Laura High.
City officials urged residents to avoid the most damaged areas and to check on neighbours, especially the elderly or those with limited mobility, as cleanup and recovery operations continue through the weekend.