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Scott County, MO — May 17, 2025
A violent storm system ripped through Scott County, Missouri, late Friday afternoon, leaving a trail of heartbreak and devastation in its wake. Two people are dead, at least ten are injured, and dozens of homes have been reduced to rubble after what officials believe was a tornado swept across the rural landscape.
The storm struck suddenly and with terrifying force, flattening neighborhoods and scattering debris for miles. Scott County Sheriff Derick Wheetley confirmed that the two deaths occurred in separate areas of the county, underscoring the widespread impact of the destructive weather. Emergency crews worked through the night, pulling survivors from the wreckage, tending to the wounded, and clearing dangerous debris from roads.
“It’s a Total Loss”: Homes Leveled in Minutes
One of the hardest-hit areas was Sloanville Road, just north of Sikeston. Sheriff Wheetley described it as a “total loss,” estimating that 15 to 20 homes were completely destroyed.
“It looks like a bomb went off,” said a local resident who helped search through wreckage for survivors. “People’s entire lives are just… gone.”
In addition to Sloanville, other parts of southern Scott County suffered catastrophic damage. Rural roads were blocked with fallen trees and downed power lines. Emergency responders from across the region rushed in to assist, many navigating treacherous conditions to reach trapped or injured residents.
Ten Injured, Some in Critical Condition
Angie Rodgers, Executive Director of the Scott County 911 Emergency Services Board, confirmed that at least ten people were injured. Some were treated on the scene, while others were rushed to local hospitals. A hospital spokesperson later said most storm-related patients are expected to recover, though several remain in serious condition.
“These storms don’t give you much warning,” Rodgers said. “Our emergency systems kicked in immediately, but the damage came fast and hit hard.”
Shelter and Support for the Displaced
With homes leveled and families displaced, the American Red Cross quickly opened a shelter at the City of Miner Convention Center in Sikeston. The center is providing food, water, beds, and emotional support for anyone impacted. No ID or proof of residency is required.
“It doesn’t matter who you are or what you have,” said a Red Cross volunteer. “If you need a safe place to stay, we’re here.”
Dozens of people sought refuge at the center Friday night, many arriving with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Crews Working Around the Clock
Scott County’s first responders and utility crews have been working nonstop since the storm hit. Downed power lines and scattered debris made many roads impassable, especially in rural stretches of the county. Ameren Missouri reported more than 100 customers without power in Scott County Friday night, and restoration efforts are still ongoing.
“It’s a massive effort,” said Sheriff Wheetley. “But our community is strong. We’re clearing roads, checking on neighbors, and doing everything possible to recover.”
Authorities continue to urge residents to stay off damaged roads and avoid storm-hit zones unless absolutely necessary. Live power lines, gas leaks, and unstable structures pose serious risks.
Officials Respond with Heartfelt Support
Governor Mike Kehoe and U.S. Senator Josh Hawley expressed condolences and pledged support for storm victims. Both officials released statements Friday night, calling the storm’s toll “heartbreaking” and vowing to coordinate with local authorities for recovery assistance.
“Our prayers are with those lost and with the families who now face the unimaginable,” said Kehoe. “We’re committed to helping Scott County rebuild.”
Was It a Tornado?
While the National Weather Service has yet to officially confirm tornado status, meteorologists believe it likely was. Damage patterns and eyewitness accounts strongly suggest tornadic activity.
“We saw the funnel cloud touch down and tear straight through our neighbor’s house,” said a Sloanville resident. “It happened in seconds.”
NWS officials say damage surveys will be conducted in the coming days to assess the storm’s full impact and classification.
The Road Ahead
The cleanup and recovery process is just beginning. As neighbors and emergency teams sift through what’s left, the spirit of the community is already shining through.
“You can’t break us,” said one local volunteer. “We take care of our own. We always have.”
For now, the focus remains on supporting survivors, restoring utilities, and ensuring everyone has food, shelter, and medical care. Donations, volunteers, and messages of support are pouring in from across the state and beyond.
If you need assistance or want to help:
- Emergency Shelter: City of Miner Convention Center, Sikeston (open 24/7)
- Donate/Volunteer: Contact the American Red Cross or local emergency services
- Report Missing Persons or Damage: Call Scott County 911 or Sheriff’s Office
Friday’s storms will leave a mark on Scott County for years to come.
But so will the acts of courage, the kindness of strangers, and the unshakable strength of a community that refuses to give up.
Stay safe. Check on your neighbors. And hold your loved ones close.