On September 29, 1927, one of the most destructive tornadoes in St. Louis history tore through the city’s western and northern neighborhoods. Touching down at about 1:00 p.m., the violent storm swept across the city in only a few minutes—decades before Doppler radar, organized tornado-warning systems, and outdoor warning sirens became familiar parts of public safety.
The tornado carved a path estimated at roughly 12 miles long and as much as 600 yards wide. It demolished homes, damaged businesses and public buildings, and devastated more than 200 city blocks. Several hospitals and schools were struck, including Mullanphy Hospital, while Central High School was damaged with more than 1,500 students inside. The tornado then crossed the Mississippi River and continued into Illinois, where it caused additional destruction and deaths.
In the aftermath, downed utility lines and debris complicated rescue and recovery. Local police and fire personnel were quickly overwhelmed, and the Missouri National Guard’s 138th Infantry was mobilized to help patrol damaged neighborhoods, protect property, and restore order.
Often overshadowed by the 1896 Great St. Louis Cyclone, the 1927 tornado remains one of the city’s worst disasters. Historical totals vary, but commonly cited figures place the toll at about 78 to 79 people killed and roughly 550 injured.
Image credit: Marian Vanderheiden Brady, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
