C0000000528202502 Local News
Perryville, Mo. (KFMO) - A powerful EF4 tornado tore through Perryville, eight years ago, on the evening of February 28, 2017, leaving one person dead, multiple others injured, and dozens of homes and vehicles destroyed. The tornado, with estimated peak winds of 180 mph, carved a 50-mile path of devastation from Perry County into southern Illinois.
Authorities confirmed that the storm claimed the life of a 24-year-old man who was ejected from his vehicle on Interstate 55 when the tornado crossed the highway. Several others sustained injuries, some requiring hospitalization.
Emergency responders worked through the night to assess damage and assist residents. The tornado leveled homes, barns, and businesses, while flipping vehicles and leaving thousands without power. Perry County officials described the scene as a “war zone,” with debris scattered across fields and roadways.
Then Missouri Governor Eric Greitens visited the area, offering state support for recovery efforts. The National Weather Service classified the tornado as an EF4, one of the strongest to hit the region in recent years.
