Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Cleanup efforts are underway across Missouri after a series of severe storms swept through the state Friday, bringing strong winds and multiple tornadoes. The storms claimed the lives of at least 12 people.
Mike O'Connell, spokesperson for the Missouri Department of Public Safety, said firefighters were already battling multiple brush fires before the storms hit.
O’Connell described the widespread devastation left in the wake of the storms.
In the aftermath, volunteers and relief groups have mobilized to provide aid, including water, shelter, and assistance with clearing debris to help speed up recovery efforts.
O’Connell noted that the cleanup process will take time as communities work to rebuild. Officials continue to assess the damage while urging residents to remain cautious in affected areas.
According to the National Weather Service, it could take several days to complete the surveys of each tornado.