The National Weather Service conducted initial surveys in the St. Louis area and found the tornado reached at least EF3 intensity. Buildings collapsed, tree limbs littered streets, trees crushed cars and thousands lost power.

The EF3 tornado caused at least $1 billion in damage in the city of St. Louis alone. At the storm’s peak, more than 100,000 lost power. Five people were confirmed dead and dozens of residents were hospitalized with injuries.

Two residents whose homes were completely destroyed provide advice for their Midwest neighbors about the insurance process.