Missouri – Rain fell so hard and so fast across south central Missouri that familiar roads vanished, vehicles stalled and families found themselves trapped above rising water. In some areas, more than 12 inches came down within hours, creating what officials described as a 1 in 1,000 year rainfall event.
By the time daylight revealed the scale of the flooding, emergency crews were already deep into a rescue operation that would reach into the hundreds.
Governor Mike Kehoe praised local and state responders, the Missouri National Guard and search teams for their work across Crawford, Iron, Madison, Reynolds and Wayne counties. More than 200 water rescues were reported as crews pulled people from flooded homes, rooftops, trees and stranded vehicles.
“Missouri’s first responders once again answered the call with extraordinary bravery, professionalism, and compassion, rescuing hundreds of Missourians from dangerous floodwaters,” Kehoe said.
“As recovery efforts continue and additional rain is expected, I urge everyone in flood-prone and low-lying areas to stay weather-aware, have multiple ways of receiving alerts, and be ready to take protective action.”
One of the largest operations unfolded at Camp Taum Sauk in Lesterville, where floodwaters stranded 202 children and counselors. Kehoe activated the Missouri National Guard, which sent eight UH 60 Black Hawk helicopters and about 35 crewmembers to evacuate the group by air.
The campers were flown to a nearby elementary school, where first responders met them and families were reunited. The operation showed the speed and coordination required as conditions changed across the flooded region.
“This effort reflects the very best of our state emergency response teams,” Kehoe said. “Countless men and women, across multiple jurisdictions, have been working around the clock with one mission in mind: saving lives. We are grateful for their service and will continue supporting communities as response and recovery efforts move forward.”
Missouri Task Force 1, the state’s Urban Search and Rescue team, was also activated. The team participated in more than 100 rescues and expanded its deployed force to 78 personnel as the emergency continued.
Attention also turned to the Black River, which was expected to crest near Annapolis at a record level above 28 feet. A woman from Crawford County remained the only confirmed person unaccounted for. Evacuations were continuing for people isolated by high water but not facing immediate danger.
Residents who need to report someone missing because of the flooding can contact Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop G at 417-469-3121.
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The State Emergency Operations Center remained active at Level 3, bringing together the State Emergency Management Agency and partners including the Highway Patrol, MoDOT, the National Guard, fire safety officials, conservation and environmental agencies, and Missouri Task Force 1. Teams continued monitoring the weather with the National Weather Service while coordinating resources and requests for help.
Officials warned that the danger was not over. People near rivers, streams and low lying areas were urged to follow forecasts, keep several ways to receive alerts and prepare to move quickly, especially overnight.
Even shallow floodwater can be deadly. Six inches can knock a person down, while about one foot can move most vehicles. More than half of Missouri flood deaths involve people in vehicles. Anyone stranded should call for help immediately, move to higher ground and never attempt to drive through water covering a road.
