Five deaths confirmed in southeast MO tornado Wednesday morning; search efforts continue
A tornado that hit southeast Missouri early Wednesday has killed five people, according to a Facebook post from the Bollinger County Sheriff's Office. Authorities are continuing search and rescue efforts in the wreckage.
"It’s with great regret that I can confirm five fatalities; names will be withheld until we are sure all family members have been notified," the post said.
A shelter for those affected by the tornado has been established at Marble Hill Baptist Church, 502 Broadway St., in Marble Hill, according to the Red Cross of Missouri.
USA Today reported that state emergency management officials said damage from the confirmed tornado was "extensive." Weather service meteorologist Justin Gibbs told USA Today that when the tornado touched down, it appeared to travel 15 to 20 miles in 15 minutes, and that the weather service will send a survey team to the area later Wednesday to assess the damage and determine the strength of the tornado.
More: 'Damage pretty widespread': 4 deaths reported in Missouri tornado. Live updates
The Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop tweeted earlier to confirm that it is assisting in search and rescue efforts in Glenallen, and that there were multiple fatalities and injuries.
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The Patrol is assisting Bollinger County and multiple local agencies in search and recovery efforts after a tornado in the Glenallen area.
Injuries and fatalities are confirmed.
Further information will be released as it becomes available.— MSHP Troop E (@MSHPTrooperE) April 5, 2023
This is a developing story.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Bollinger Co. Sheriff's Office confirms five dead in tornado Wednesday
