Jefferson City (Press Release) — Missouri Governor Mike Parson requested that President Joe Biden approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance in 14 counties in response to the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred November 3-9, 2024, resulting in significant damage to public infrastructure.
“For the past week, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been working in close coordination with our federal and local partners to document damage in the impacted areas,” Governor Parson shared in a press release earlier this week. “We are confident that federal assistance will be forthcoming and appreciate all the work that’s already been done by SEMA, local responders, and partner agencies to help these communities recover.”
Joint damage assessments conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), SEMA, and local emergency managers estimate nearly $45 million in infrastructure damage and emergency response costs eligible for federal assistance.
Governor Parson is requesting Public Assistance for Carter, Crawford, Dent, Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Shannon, Texas, Washington, and Wright Counties.
If approved, Public Assistance would allow local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.
On Tuesday, November 5th, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 24-14 declaring a state of emergency and activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions to provide assistance.
SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials, fellow state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.
