The floods that swept across Reynolds, Iron and Crawford counties last week left behind heartbreaking devastation. The National Weather Service confirmed the event as a 1,000-year flood, with up to 12 inches of rain falling overnight and the Black River rising to record levels, more than 20 feet in less than 12 hours.
I appreciate Gov. Mike Kehoe’s swift response in declaring a state of emergency. My office and I will do everything in our power to support a Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster declaration. I have been in contact with local officials, emergency responders and families across the region about the impact of the flooding, and what I have heard over and over again is how quickly first responders moved and how our communities immediately came together to help one another.
More than 300 rescue missions have been completed since the flooding began. The Missouri National Guard flew eight Black Hawk helicopters into Lesterville to evacuate more than 200 campers and counselors from Camp Taum Sauk, while Missouri Task Force 1 conducted more than 100 water rescues. Firefighters, sheriff’s deputies, emergency medical crews and 911 dispatchers worked around the clock, and first responders came from as far away as Branson to help. Their courage, preparation and willingness to answer the call saved lives, and I could not be more grateful for their service.
That gratitude is accompanied by profound loss. We lost Faith Gregory, who was swept away from her home near Huzzah Creek in Crawford County. I am praying for her family and for everyone across this district still grieving and working to rebuild.
My office and I have stayed in close contact with emergency management and community leaders since the first reports came in, meeting with state and local officials to receive updates and assess needs on the ground. We stand ready to help however we can as recovery continues.
If your home, farm or business suffered damage, resources are available. The American Red Cross and Salvation Army remain on the ground providing shelter, meals and supplies. If you are missing a loved one, contact Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop G at 417-469-3121.
For farmers and livestock producers who suffered livestock or forage losses, USDA disaster assistance programs may be available. Contact your local Farm Service Agency office as soon as possible to report damage, as eligibility requirements and filing deadlines apply.
Whether you are rebuilding your home, repairing a damaged farm or business, or trying to navigate a federal agency, my office is ready to help. Reach out to one of my district offices, and we will work to get you the answers and assistance you need.
The road to recovery is never easy, but the strength and compassion Missourians have shown over the last week make clear that no family or community will face it alone. I will continue working alongside first responders, local leaders and every family affected until every community is back on its feet.
