Missouri electric cooperatives assist in power restoration after tornado
ST. LOUIS, Mo., (KBSI) – A devastating EF3 tornado struck the St. Louis metropolitan area on May 16, leaving a trail of destruction and widespread power outages in its wake.
The storm, with wind speeds reaching 150 mph, damaged over 5,000 homes and buildings, and as of Sunday morning, 48,500 Ameren customers were without power in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County and northern Jefferson County.
In response to a request from Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri Electric Cooperatives coordinated with Ameren to provide support. Eight Missouri cooperatives have dispatched 51 linemen for a three-day deployment to assist in power restoration efforts.
“We’re proud to provide mutual aid when fellow utilities are in need,” said Caleb Jones, CEO of Missouri Electric Cooperatives. “These cooperative crews are experienced in storm recovery and are prepared to work long hours to help restore power safely and efficiently.”
Missouri’s electric cooperatives have a longstanding commitment to service and community, routinely participating in mutual aid efforts both in and out of state during major storms or disasters.
