Missouri Floods: State of Emergency Declared

Missouri is currently under a state of emergency due to severe storms and widespread flash flooding impacting its central, south-central, and southeastern areas. Governor Mike Kehoe has activated the state emergency operations plan, enabling state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions and expedite emergency aid. This activation allows for swift resource allocation and support for ongoing rescue efforts, with first responders working continuously.

Over the past 24 hours, intense storms have caused dangerous flash flooding across several Missouri regions, necessitating multiple swift-water rescues. Governor Kehoe has warned that the threat persists, with expectations of additional heavy rainfall throughout the upcoming weekend. Residents are urged to exercise caution, especially those near rivers and streams, and to relocate to higher ground.

Some locations within Missouri have already experienced accumulations of 6 to 12 inches of rain. State agencies, including the highway patrol and emergency management, are actively deployed alongside local emergency responders to address the flooding’s impact on homes, roads, and campgrounds. A specialized state task force with 50 members, equipped with rescue boats, has also been deployed.

The US National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Emergency for parts of Iron and Reynolds counties and warned of continuing thunderstorms with heavy rains into Friday evening. Flood watches are in effect for the weekend. Flash flood warnings have been issued for numerous other counties, indicating imminent or ongoing dangerous flooding. Residents are strongly advised to stay alert and avoid traveling through flooded areas.