St. Louis, Mo., Jan 8, 2016 / 15:03 pm
A massive cleanup is left for those whose homes were in the path of one of the worst floods in the St. Louis area in over two decades.
"I have been fervently praying for those suffering due to the recent flooding in our city and state. As our region watched the flood waters rise to record heights, so too did we see the damage, loss, and suffering increase," Archbishop Robert J. Carlson of St. Louis said in a Jan. 7 statement.
More than 10 inches of rain fell on the St. Louis area over three days starting on Dec. 26, 2015 the Associated Press reported. At least 15 people in Missouri, and 10 in Illinois, were killed due to the flooding. Thousands were forced to leave their homes and only recently were they able to return and begin the cleanup process – if their homes were still standing.
"We mourn for those who lost their lives. We know that many homes full of memories have been destroyed. Photos, heirlooms, and other keepsakes are lost. Businesses were devastated and will need extensive repairs," Archbishop Carlson said.