Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will engage in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) to evaluate public infrastructure and response costs in Dade, Douglas, Ozark, Vernon, and Webster counties. These areas suffered significant damage due to severe storms, straight-line winds, excessive rain, large hail, and flooding from May 23 through May 26.
“The long Memorial Day weekend brought four consecutive days of damaging severe storms and flooding to southwest Missouri and led to the destruction of public infrastructure and emergency response costs that are well-beyond the capacity of Dade, Douglas, Ozark, Vernon, and Webster counties,” Governor Kehoe stated. “Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) personnel have been working with local officials as they have been preparing initial damage estimates and we believe the destruction requires joint reviews by FEMA, SEMA, and our local partners in anticipation for a request for a federal disaster declaration.”
Additional counties may be added based on further damage reports from local authorities.
Joint PDA teams will consist of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, and local emergency management officials. Starting Tuesday, June 10, three teams will assess documented damages to determine eligibility for Public Assistance from FEMA. This assistance allows local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal reimbursement for emergency response costs including debris removal and repair or replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.
SEMA is continuing its coordination efforts with local officials, state agencies, volunteers, and faith-based partners to address needs in areas affected by this spring’s severe weather. Residents who have sustained damage are advised to contact their insurance companies promptly.
Missourians with unmet needs can reach out to United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For more information on disaster recovery resources in Missouri such as clean-up details, housing assistance, or mental health services visit recovery.mo.gov.
