ST. LOUIS – There’s still a long road ahead, but signs of progress are everywhere. Roads that were once blocked by debris have been cleared, power is returning, and neighborhoods that were hit the hardest are getting the help they need.
Cleanup continues in St. Louis after last week’s tornado. City crews cleared all roads and alleys in the first week, with private contractors doubling machinery.
And Governor Mike Kehoe announced Saturday afternoon that the Missouri National Guard will activate and deploy up to 41 engineering personnel to the city beginning this Wednesday, an answered plea from residents hit the hardest.
“The 10th ward has eight neighborhoods, and all eight neighborhoods were impacted from the path of this tornado,” said Alderwoman Shameem Clark Hubbard.
More than 3,400 homes have been inspected and tagged: Red means unsafe, yellow is moderately safe, and green is okay.
A sticker shortage led to orange papers being used briefly. The mayor’s office stopped it to avoid confusion.
Fires have sparked in some unstable homes due to lingering electrical issues, so Ameren has begun to disconnect the power to those units.
“We know this is heartbreaking and adding trauma to an already traumatic scenario here, but we recognize it’s dangerous to have electricity on in those unsound buildings,” said St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer.
As of Saturday, a curfew remains in place for St. Louis Police Districts 5 and 6.
Congressman Wesley Bell says a major disaster declaration could bring more aid and the state awaits the president’s response. He stated his office is already working on a supplemental bill for when those resources expire.
Ameren expects full power restoration by Sunday night, and 1,600 homes were still out Saturday afternoon. City crews will rest Sunday and Monday for the holiday weekend.