ST. LOUIS – St. Louis is reeling in the aftermath of a devastating tornado that ripped through the region Friday, leaving at least five people dead and nearly 40 injured.

The city remains under a state of emergency as recovery efforts intensify. A citywide curfew is in effect for districts 5 and 6 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Saturday, following the same curfew order on Friday.

Mayor Cara Spencer spoke at a press conference Saturday morning, describing the storm’s impact as truly tremendous.

“The devastation is truly heartbreaking and let’s not forget people have lost their lives,” said Spencer. “We are continuing to make sure we are identifying all of those that are injured in addition to the massive amount of property damage that has taken its toll.”

More than 5,000 buildings across the metro area are damaged, with neighborhoods in Clayton, the Central West End, and North City among the hardest hit. Emergency crews are clearing debris-clogged roads, restoring traffic signals, and securing downed power lines.

Local leaders are organizing a coordinated donation effort, with details expected soon on how residents can contribute. State and federal agencies are stepping in to support recovery. FEMA is on standby, and Governor Mike Kehoe’s office is in contact with the White House about a potential new emergency declaration.

“We’re putting all hands on deck to make sure that we can assist the city and local authorities as much as possible,” said Kehoe. “Our first responders, both fire and police, have been incredible heroes in this moment and this is when you really see the goodness of Missouri.”

The St. Louis Fire Department has already searched more than 4,000 homes. Crews are also coordinating with utility companies to help restore power to an estimated 90,000 homes still in the dark.

City officials are urging residents to stay safe, follow curfew guidelines, and check on neighbors as recovery continues in the days ahead.