Sat May 17 03:04:10 UTC 2025: **News Article: Midwest Reels After Deadly Tornadoes and Severe Storms**
**St. Louis, Missouri – May 17, 2025** – At least four people are dead and countless others are injured after a severe weather system, including a suspected tornado, tore through St. Louis, Missouri, and surrounding areas on Friday. The storms, which ripped roofs off buildings and downed trees and power lines, are part of a broader weather pattern impacting much of the United States, bringing tornadoes, hail, high winds, and even extreme heat.
St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer declared a state of emergency, calling the damage “truly, truly devastating.” The National Weather Service confirmed that a tornado likely touched down in the Clayton area, impacting Forest Park, home to the St. Louis Zoo and a historic landmark. A church in St. Louis was partially destroyed, resulting in one fatality and the rescue of three others.
The St. Louis Zoo will remain closed Saturday due to damage. All animals and staff are safe.
The storms are part of a broader system that spawned tornadoes in Wisconsin and warnings in Illinois and other states. A rare tornado emergency was issued around Marion, Illinois. A dust storm warning was in effect around Chicago. Parts of Appalachia and the Midwest are bracing for more severe weather, including possible tornadoes, large hail, and hurricane-force winds.
Meanwhile, Texas and parts of the southern East Coast are battling extreme heat, with advisories in place for San Antonio and Austin.
Appalachian Power has requested additional workers to assist with service restoration as thousands remain without power across the Great Lakes region.
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