KC Reporter

Governor Mike Kehoe has formally requested federal assistance following the severe storms and tornadoes that struck Missouri on March 14-15, causing significant devastation. This appeal for a major disaster declaration was directed to President Donald J. Trump, aiming to secure aid for 28 counties impacted by the natural disaster that led to 13 fatalities and extensive damage to infrastructure.

Governor Kehoe stated, “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and local partners have been working in close coordination with FEMA to document damage in the areas impacted by these storms. Today, we are requesting a federal disaster declaration to support the affected communities and their recovery efforts. We are confident federal assistance will be forthcoming and greatly appreciate the critical work already being done by local response agencies and many volunteer partners to help Missourians in need.”

The request includes FEMA Individual Assistance for 25 counties. This aid would help eligible residents by covering temporary housing, repairs, and replacement of damaged items like personal belongings and vehicles. Additionally, Public Assistance is sought for 20 counties, which would support local governments and nonprofit agencies in receiving federal aid for the restoration of public infrastructure and reimbursement of emergency response expenses.

Joint assessments carried out by FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local officials estimated damages surpassing $26.9 million in response costs and infrastructure damage.

To aid affected residents, Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) were set up in several locations from March 25 to April 1, assisting over 2,873 individuals. The MARC planned in Pacific has been rescheduled due to weather concerns and will occur on April 9.

For ongoing assistance, Missourians are advised to contact the United Way or the American Red Cross, and further information is available at recovery.mo.gov.