KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A tornado arrived to Bollinger County in southeast Missouri overnight, causing death, injuries and destruction in its path.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol announced Wednesday morning that the tornado was near Glenallen, a village about 110 miles south of St. Louis.
At least five people have been confirmed dead due to the tornado, according to Bollinger County Sheriff Casey Graham.
There were also multiple injuries confirmed, according to MSHP, but it's not yet known exactly how many people were injured.
Preliminary indications from a National Weather Service Survey Team are that a "high end EF2 tornado" struck the area with peak winds around 130 mph, but that is subject to change.
The Survey Team has found what looks like high end EF2 tornado damage in the Glenallen area of Bollinger County, MO. Estimated peak winds at this time are 130 mph. These details may change with later updates, just getting you what we think now. Stay tuned for more details.
— NWS Paducah, KY (@NWSPaducah) April 5, 2023
An active search and rescue is underway, according to the highway patrol. A command post is set at Woodland High School, in Marble Hill, Missouri.
The Associated Press reports that the storm caused a "widespread debris field."
MSHP says the tornado caused "a lot" of building damage.
Primary highways are open in the area, while secondary roadways are closed.
The highway patrol is working with Bollinger County and several law enforcement agencies to respond to the impacted area.
"As your Sheriff, I am focused on ensuring those who still need help are receiving it, and we account for all our citizens," Graham said.
MSHP says additional information will be shared as it is available.
"My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of the deceased," Missouri Sen. Eric Schmitt said in a statement. "My team has already been in touch with the White House and local leaders and stands ready, willing, and able to assist wherever possible."
