ST. LOUIS – St. Louis leaders and officials are now focused on recovery efforts after a deadly tornado tore through the city and region on Friday, killing at least five people, injuring 38, and leaving widespread destruction in its wake.

During a Saturday afternoon news conference, city leaders detailed ongoing emergency response efforts and outlined key next steps in recovery, cleanup, and community support.

The news conference included the following notes and remarks:

Cara Spencer

Mayor Cara Spencer noted that city employees have been working around the clock from the city’s Emergency Operations Headquarters.

Spencer acknowledged various challenges in moving forward, noting that roadways and buildings are still in dangerous conditions. As for debris cleanup, she says the city is hauling massive amounts of tree debris and working to clear roadways and alleys. Dumpsters are a key concern, and coordination is ongoing.

Spencer confirmed that St. Louis has declared a local emergency and is now pursuing a federal disaster declaration from the White House.

Spencer expressed gratitude to local, state, and federal partners while describing the community response as “heartwarming and truly incredible.”

Dennis Jenkerson

St. Louis Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson says fire crews have completed an extensive sweep, covering 62 square miles of the city and ensuring that every street has been check.

A final sweep began late Saturday afternoon in the northern part of the city. Officials aimed to complete it by 7 p.m. Saturday.

Jenkerson says there are no changes in the number of injuries reported as of the previous update on deaths and injuries Saturday morning.

Robert Tracy

St. Louis police chief Robert Tracy confirmed that SLMPD has identified three of the five victims killed in the tornado. Officials are currently working to notify their families.

The five victims are believed to be between the ages of 30 and 82, according to Tracy.

Tracy emphasized the importance of the citywide curfew in districts 5 and 6, stressing the need for public safety.

Wesley Bell

Missouri U.S. Sen. Wesley Bell voiced support for a federal disaster declaration from President Donald Trump, noting he would work with locals and pledged to use any resource available. Bell was quoted as saying, “Faith without works is dead,” and recovery wouldn’t simply be an “overnight fix.”

Bell called for community donations and volunteerism, encouraging residents to donate to United Way of Greater St. Louis, volunteer through Red Cross and check local food banks for needs. HOW TO HELP

Ameren Missouri

An Ameren Missouri spokesperson urged patience from residents as crews work to restore power. He noted restoration was being prioritized for crticial facilities, like hospitals, nursing homes, police and fire stations. From there, he added crews are focusing on areas with the highest outage clusters to restore power as efficiently as possible.

American Red Cross

A Red Cross spokesperson noted that three city shelters are helping residents, though the one at Grace Methodist Church is full. For now, residents in need should seek shelters at the Friendly Temple Outreach Center or the 12th & Park Recreation Center.

She noted Red Cross teams are on the ground helping with food, shelter and assessing property damage. In the upcoming days, the additional Red Cross teams will be deployed to evaluate household needs across the city.

Urban League

Urban League noted its disaster relief site has been set up at 1408 N. Kingshighway Blvd.

On Saturday, volunteers delivered food and water to 75 families. In the near future, the nonprofit hopes to work with the regional council to conduct neighborhood walk-throughs and assess ongoing needs.

Gentry Trotter

Gentry Trotter with Cool Down/Heat Up St. Louis urged Ameren and Spire to consider a four-month moratorium on utility shutoffs in response to severe storms.

Trotter also announced support to use ARPA federal funds to help impacted families and relieve financial pressure. He also encouraged donations to Cool Down/Heat Up St. Louis to help residents in need.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.