ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer fought to maintain her composure while discussing the devastation she’s witnessed while touring the areas hardest hit by the May 16 tornado.

At the end of a news conference with other city officials covering topics like the city’s siren system, the presence of the Missouri National Guard, and getting state and federal help to those most in need, the mayor was asked to describe her own reaction when first seeing the aftermath of the tornado.

“I can just tell you…the damage is so extensive. I’ve been to…the people have been so gracious to bring me into their homes and…there aren’t words,” Spencer said. “Entire sides, fronts, backs, tops of homes are missing. People have wrapped their personal belongings in [plastic] wrap.

“It is unbelievable what people are going through right now. There are no words to describe the feeling of hopelessness…we are doing our best to bring resources as needed.”

After thanking Governor Mike Kehoe and Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt for their efforts in requesting federal assistance, the mayor said there is a tremendous need for tarps and other supplies. While there were no reports of any new damage or casualties from Monday night’s storms, Spencer said they’re still waiting to see the overall effect of the rain on exposed structures.

The city is attempting to bring in additional building inspectors to examine and assess damaged buildings to determine if they are safe and can be rehabilitated or saved, the mayor said.

“The destruction – eight miles, just in the city…that is very unusual behavior for a tornado. This is a heavily populated area. These are people’s homes. This is everything they own open to the elements. You cannot overstate the destruction and damage of this tornado,” she said.

People in need of immediate housing assistance are encouraged to contact the American Red Cross or call 211.

Meanwhile, the Missouri National Guard is in St. Louis to evaluate the community’s needs and prepare an assessment for review before they could be deployed.

Beginning Wednesday, the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency and U.S. Small Business Administration will visit the storm-impacted areas for three days to conduct damage assessments, which are critical toward acquiring a disaster declaration at the national level and acquiring federal relief funds.