ST. LOUIS — Communities across the St. Louis region posted their various cleanup times and are also warning their residents of potential scams.
Twelve deaths have been confirmed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol from Friday night’s severe weather. Initial reports show there were up to 19 tornados that impacted 25 counties in Missouri, according to state officials.
"The scale of devastation across our state is staggering," said Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe. "While we grieve the lives of those lost, we are also focused on action—getting power restored, clearing debris, and ensuring our communities have the resources they need to recover. The strength and resilience of Missourians are already on display, and we will be with them every step of the way."
Officials with St. Louis County are posting frequently on their Facebook page to let citizens know the latest on storm debris remove, road closures and results from weather surveys. For the latest updates from the county, click here.
The City of Florrisant Mayor issued a statement on Facebook about rules for cleanup, saying:
The City of Florissant is also working to provide dumpsters in the areas most affected by last night’s storms. These dumpsters are intended for storm-related debris such as damaged property (e.g., shingles, furniture, and similar items). Please note that tree limbs and yard debris should not be placed in these dumpsters.
For more information on the latest from the city, click here.
The Bridgeton Police Department issued a warning to residents about potential scammers.
"We’ve encountered scammers before. We’re monitoring incoming vehicles to prevent individuals posing as contractors from taking advantage of residents. Already, we’ve turned away many people who don’t live here or know anyone who does, but were simply looking to spectate, take photos or videos, or exploit vulnerable homeowners for work," the department said on Facebook. "Unfortunately, this is a real concern and it has already happened today. And as night falls, the risk of individuals entering these neighborhoods to loot uninhabitable homes increases significantly."
For assistance or additional information, contact the Bridgeton Police Department at 314-739-7557.
For a full list of their tips to keep you and your family safe, click here.
The City of Arnold, Mo., said it will starts its storm debris cleanup on Wednesday, March 19. They asked residents to place debris on the edge of the street so they can be picked up. They also request that residents not block roadways with their debris. For more information, click here.
Officials with the City of Wildwood said crews are out surveying the damage and listed the areas most impacted by the storm.
"Wildwood falls within the Meramec Valley territory, based out of the Ellisville Operating Center. This area—spanning Franklin County, Jefferson County, Wildwood, Chesterfield, and areas east to Highway 141—suffered significant damage," the city said on Facebook.
They also posted a list of road closures, a plan-of-action and how citizens can assist with the cleanup. For more information, click here.
The American Red Cross is also offering assistance for residents across the region who were impacted by the storm.
"After emergencies, the Red Cross helps meet the urgent needs of people affected. We focus on providing safe shelter, food, emotional support, first aid and health services, emergency relief supplies, such as blankets, hygiene items, and cleaning kits. We also provide mental health and disaster spiritual care," the organization said on Facebook. "If you or someone you know needs assistance, please call 1-800-Red-Cross or the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990."
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
