The tornado carved a devastating path through the city, ripping off roofs, uprooting trees, and downing power lines. Its wrath left around 100,000 properties without electricity, prompting urgent rescue operations in the hardest-hit neighborhoods. Following the storm, house-by-house searches were conducted by the local fire department to assess damage and assist individuals in need.
The National Weather Service specified that the tornado touched down just after 2:30 PM local time, near the popular Forest Park, known for the St. Louis Zoo and its history as the 1904 Olympic Games site. Emergency responders reported that the collapse of the Centennial Christian Church led to three rescues, one of which resulted in a tragic death.
In light of the destruction, officials implemented a curfew from 9 PM to 6 AM in the most affected areas, intending to minimize the risk of injury from debris and prevent possible looting. St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer expressed her sorrow, stating, "Our city is grieving tonight. The loss of life and destruction is truly, truly horrendous." She acknowledged the significant recovery efforts ahead, emphasizing the primary focus on saving lives and ensuring community well-being during this tragic time. The National Weather Service also reported additional tornado activity across Missouri and Illinois, indicating an ongoing severe weather situation extending to the Atlantic coast.
The National Weather Service specified that the tornado touched down just after 2:30 PM local time, near the popular Forest Park, known for the St. Louis Zoo and its history as the 1904 Olympic Games site. Emergency responders reported that the collapse of the Centennial Christian Church led to three rescues, one of which resulted in a tragic death.
In light of the destruction, officials implemented a curfew from 9 PM to 6 AM in the most affected areas, intending to minimize the risk of injury from debris and prevent possible looting. St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer expressed her sorrow, stating, "Our city is grieving tonight. The loss of life and destruction is truly, truly horrendous." She acknowledged the significant recovery efforts ahead, emphasizing the primary focus on saving lives and ensuring community well-being during this tragic time. The National Weather Service also reported additional tornado activity across Missouri and Illinois, indicating an ongoing severe weather situation extending to the Atlantic coast.
