St. Louis Libraries Reopen After Tornado Repairs

May 16, 2025, Tornado Width Increased To 1.8 Miles By NWS, Widest In Region Since 1950

GRANITE CITY - After a year-long review of new ground survey data and aerial imagery, the National Weather Service office in St. Louis has updated its damage assessment of the May 16, 2025, tornado event in the St. Louis metropolitan area, concluding that two tornadoes occurred and that the primary tornado’s path was wider than previously reported.The NWS increased the reported width of the St. Louis tornado to 3,168 yards, or 1.8 miles, calling…

St. Louis libraries reopen after tornado repairs

More than a year after a May 16 tornado, the Cabanne and Julia Davis library branches in St. Louis have reopened to the public. Both libraries underwent repairs from damage caused by the storm, which included "exploding" drop ceilings and are considered crucial community assets.

St. Louis libraries reopen one year after tornado damage

A year after a major tornado tore through St. Louis, leaving behind a trail of shattered homes, damaged landmarks and devastated neighborhoods, two beloved community libraries are preparing to welcome residents back through their doors. Cabanne Library and Julia Davis Library will officially reopen Monday, May 18, after months of repairs following the May 16, 2025 tornado that cut a 23-mile path across the region. The storm damaged or destroyed …

12 takeaways from a year reporting on the May 16 tornado

For the past year, STLPR has been documenting the struggle to rebuild or move on in the tornado zone as well as the failures of the recovery effort. Here are 12 takeaways from our reporting.