ST. LOUIS — What was meant to be a joyful end-of-school-year tradition turned into a harrowing encounter with a tornado for a Godfrey mother and four children visiting the Saint Louis Zoo Friday afternoon. Ashleigh Schroeder had taken her two kids and two of their friends—ages 9 to 12—for a celebratory day at their favorite spot.

St. Louis mayor asks for donations, says FEMA isn't helping after tornado struck city, causing historic damage

The emergency management director in one of the state's hardest-hit counties said debris removal operations have ground to a halt and people who lost their homes aren't getting the help they need.