JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Twelve deaths have been confirmed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol from Friday night’s severe weather. Initial reports show there were up to 19 tornados that impacted 25 counties in Missouri, according to state officials.
The severe weather damaged homes, buildings and caused widespread power outages across Missouri.
The National Weather Service has confirmed three tornadoes including a n EF-2 in Jefferson County from Hillsboro to Arnold. An EF-2 near Villa Ridge and an EF-1 south of Union in Franklin County. It will continue surveying other areas in Missouri and Illinois tomorrow and Monday.
The Missouri State Emergency Operations Center remains activated while state members continue to respond to impacted areas, according to a press release from Gov. Mike Kehoe’s office.
Kehoe toured some of the hardest hit communities Saturday, including Arnold.
"The damage is overwhelming, but so is the strength of our communities. While Missouri remains in a State of Emergency, we are working closely with state and federal partners to get help where it is needed most," said Kehoe in a social media post.
The governor declared a State of Emergency Friday, which initiates the State of Emergency Operations Plan for recovery efforts.
“Friday and through the night, Missouri first responders, volunteers and our faith-based partners worked tirelessly in response to a series of devastating tornadoes and severe storms, and before that, dangerous and damaging fires,” Gov. Mike Kehoe said.
“Our state team members and responders are working to support communities, have begun to assess the damage with local partners, and will be gathering more information in the coming days. I appreciate the heroic work of all those who are assisting their fellow Missourians. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families grieving loved ones, and we stand with all those impacted by these devastating storms."
The State Emergency Operations Plan (SEMA) and Missouri State Highway Patrol are continuing to work with local officials to assess damage and provide assistance.
Information on those who sustain serious injuries is being gathered by state workers.
