Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (March 17, 2025) — A member of the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada disaster team deployed last night to Missouri for a 14-day mission to assist those impacted by the devastating tornadoes. Red Cross disaster teams are on the ground, working tirelessly to provide shelter, meals and emotional support to those in need.
“The tornadoes have left a significant and tragic impact, displacing families and destroying entire neighborhoods across Missouri,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “Our teams are committed to aiding recovery efforts by providing care, resources and hope to those affected. We’ll remain alongside them as they rebuild their lives in the weeks and months to come.”
This massive storm left a path of destruction, bringing tornadoes, strong winds, hail and heavy rainfall. Hundreds of homes, businesses, schools and other buildings have been damaged or completely destroyed. More than 100 roads were closed due to flooding, structural damage and debris. Tragically, the disaster has resulted in the loss of 12 lives, and one person is still missing.
Jocelyn Seemann, Regional Mass Care Manager based in Reno, deployed to St. Louis late last night. She has deployed on 11 previous Red Cross disaster relief missions.
Red Cross Assisting in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Mississippi
Arkansas and Mississippi were also hit by multiple tornadoes that destroyed entire neighborhoods, while Oklahoma is dealing with damage from wildfires. Red Cross teams from across the country are on the ground in these states, providing critical assistance. Volunteers are assessing residential damage in the hardest-hit areas and distributing essential supplies, including meals, snacks, water, blankets, tarps and cleaning kits. These efforts will help identify the specific support families need in the days and weeks ahead as they begin to recover.
Growing Need for Disaster Preparedness
Last year, the U.S. experienced 27 weather and climate disasters with damages exceeding $1 billion each, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This followed a record 28 billion-dollar disasters in 2023. Increasingly frequent and intense weather events highlight the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness and response efforts.
Red Cross volunteers have been at the forefront of disaster relief efforts, delivering shelter, meals and emergency assistance to communities devastated by hurricanes, storms, wildfires and floods. Over the past four decades (1980–2022), the U.S. averaged eight major disasters per year, but the increase in recent years highlights an urgent need for continued support.
Join the Red Cross Team
Red Cross disaster volunteers receive training to respond to local emergencies like home fires, providing critical immediate support on-site or remotely. With additional experience and training, volunteers can also deploy to larger emergencies nationwide. Visit redcross.org/DAT to learn more about disaster response opportunities.
Every day, Red Cross volunteers make a difference in their communities. From supporting disaster victims to donating blood to teaching lifesaving skills, they play vital roles in helping others. Find a role that suits you by exploring volunteer opportunities at redcross.org/volunteer.
How You Can Help
Support the American Red Cross Disaster Relief efforts today. Your contributions help prepare for, respond to and assist in recovery from disasters of all sizes. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
