Profound Devastation from the May 16, 2025, Tornado in St. Louis

The generational tornado in St. Louis, Missouri has left a profound and devastating impact on the community. The EF4 tornado with winds of 170 mph cut a path of destruction through the city more than fifteen miles long and a half a mile or more wide. Institutions and neighborhoods suffered extensively, and businesses and homes suffered permanent damage. More than five thousand structures have experienced impact. Twenty-five people died, and over two hundred were injured. The damage exceeds a billion dollars.

The responses from the community of countless volunteers, the clergy and local community organizations are remarkable and a clear testimonial to the resilience, and determination of our city. Moreover, local government and state government stepped up and demonstrated leadership and support for the people. A federal delegation was present and responsive, including both Senators and Congress people.

So far, beyond regular communications and early signs of survival and the beginning signs of an effort to recover, the City of St. Louis and the State of Missouri are providing financial assistance for the victims. St. Louis City Mayor Cara Spencer’s administration and the board of Alderman have authorized $30 million of the Rams settlement money, interest from the settle money, to be allocated to the recovery efforts of the May 16, 2025, Tornado in St. Louis, and the State of Missouri has authorized $100 million in Tornado relief.

FEMA declared the tornado a major disaster, allowing federal funds for recovery efforts. However, FEMA requires a cost-share or matching funds from non-federal sources for certain disasters and relief events. Our city and state disaster relief ear marks a total of $130 million so far. If FEMA supplies only provide 1:1 matching funds, the total aid will approach $260 million. This is far short of the projected need. Total damage and losses will exceed $1 billion. The local community's efforts are heroic. However, it is uncertain when or how much FEMA money will arrive for the city or what the efforts of congressional leaders to deliver much needed financial aid from the federal government are.

The city of St. Louis has a long road to cover ahead. Make no mistake, this city will recover. The extensive efforts to develop a prosperous city with flourishing communities and businesses, sustainable infrastructure, and significant financial investments through public-private partnerships will endure; we will rebuild stronger and better.

#STLStrong!