From the Field: Kent Peterson’s Reflection on Tornado Recovery in Missouri

After decades in claims, some storms leave behind more than just damage—they leave stories that stay with you. This is one of those stories, shared by Kent Peterson, our Assistant Vice President of Claims at CFM Insurance. With years of experience helping families recover from catastrophic losses, Kent offers a firsthand account of what it means to show up when it matters most.

The phrase “Tornado Alley” is all too familiar for those of us in the Midwest. Over the last 10–15 years, Missouri has found itself caught in a troubling position—essentially wedged between two tornado alleys. As a result, we’ve seen a dramatic uptick in tornadic activity across our state. In just the first half of 2025 alone, Missouri has recorded 89 tornadoes. To put that in perspective, the all-time record stands at 106 tornadoes in a single year (set in 2006), and in 2024 we came dangerously close with 105.

Lately, we’re seeing more frequent EF-0 to EF-1 tornadoes—less intense but still destructive. However, major twisters like the EF-3 that tore through St. Louis on May 16, 2025, are reminders that larger, life-altering storms are still a very real threat.

Several CFM policyholders have already been impacted by these storms this year. On March 14, an EF-3 tornado struck Iron County, damaging farms and homes late at night just after 11:00 p.m. In Sikeston (Scott County), another EF-3 hit on May 16, eventually intensifying and causing destructive damage as it moved through the St. Louis area.

A Close Call at the Farm: The Storm’s Path Through Nevada, Missouri

One particular event I’ll never forget happened on the morning of April 2, around 7:30 a.m., when a large EF-1 tornado touched down outside of Nevada, Missouri.

One of our policyholders—a family with a large farm—was in the direct path of the storm, which traveled nearly 17 miles, stretched 600 yards wide, and brought wind speeds up to 100 mph. Thankfully, the family members were safe in the basement, and their farmhouse was mostly untouched. However, the aftermath was widespread: farm buildings, barns, silos, and machine sheds were destroyed.

I personally visited the property the next day, April 3, along with Team Manager Ben Renno and Senior Property Field Adjuster Brian Atkinson. It was a cold, wet, six-hour inspection in the pouring rain. And Brian—who I can’t speak highly enough about—was able to fully assess, scope, and write a complete estimate within three days of our visit. Thanks to his urgency, professionalism, and commitment, we were able to issue a substantial settlement to the family within 20 days of the tornado.

 

Where Promises Become Action

At CFM, our approach is always centered on delivering the promise our agents made. When a policyholder suffers a loss—especially a farm loss—you’re dealing with more than just damaged property. You’re dealing with the core of their livelihood. That’s why our claims team works urgently and collaboratively to reimburse, restore, rebuild, and replace—ensuring that both personal and business needs are addressed as quickly as possible.

This specific claim was a textbook example of what happens when everyone—from the policyholder and agent to the adjuster and support staff—pulls together with the same goal. The policyholder’s quick response, combined with Brian’s commitment and the full team’s coordination, helped the family move toward recovery with confidence and speed.

What Should a Policyholder Do After a Loss?

While we hope none of our policyholders experience a disaster like a tornado, if they do, it’s critical to know the right steps to take. These can help the recovery process go smoothly and safely.

Step 1: Safe and Sound?

• Make sure your family and beloved pets are safe and accounted for.

• Protect your property from further damage, if possible by covering exposed areas with tarps, boarding up broken windows, shutting off utilities if needed, and removing any immediate hazards that could cause additional loss or injury.

• Gather and secure important belongings.

Step 2: Report the Claim

• Contact CFM immediately—online, by phone (or mobile app), or through your local agent.

• The sooner the claim is filed, the sooner we can respond—every minute counts when disaster strikes. Don’t wait.

Step 3: Estimate the Damage

• A licensed insurance adjuster will inspect the damage and begin documenting a detailed account of the loss.

Step 4: Determine Coverage

• Once the adjuster has calculated the repair or replacement cost, they’ll help determine how much coverage applies and how much is owed.

Step 5: Rebuild, Repair, Replace

• Your recovery isn’t complete until you’re back in your home and your farm or business is back up and running.

• Use reputable, licensed contractors – not opportunistic storm chasers looking to take advantage when you’re at your most vulnerable.

• Make sure your contractor is insured and pulls permits.

• Obtain multiple estimates and communicate openly with your adjuster.

Step 6: Prepare for the Future

• Take time to create a comprehensive home inventory—include photos, serial numbers, receipts, and estimated values where possible. Store this list digitally or in a secure, accessible location. In the event of a loss, it will make filing your claim faster, more accurate, and far less stressful.

• When rebuilding, opt for materials designed to withstand severe weather—like impact-resistant roofing, reinforced doors, and storm-rated windows. These investments not only increase safety and resilience but can also reduce future damage and insurance claims.

At CFM Insurance, we don’t just process claims—we step in during some of the hardest moments our customers face. These are the times we want to shine—to live up to the commitment we made to protect. Every one of these disasters is difficult, but helping restore lives and livelihoods is exactly why we do what we do. We’re proud to serve our policyholders, and we’re always ready to stand beside them, no matter what storms may come.