KC Reporter

Governor Mike Kehoe of Missouri announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will assist in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) across 25 counties following severe weather that has affected the state since March 30.

"Our state and local public works crews have been doing an incredible job reopening roads and making initial repairs to bridges, low water crossings, and other infrastructure, but it is clear that the extent of the damage across the state will require federal disaster assistance," said Governor Kehoe. Along with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and local teams, FEMA will begin PDAs next week to document and tally the damage to public infrastructure, validating the need for federal Public Assistance.

The counties involved include Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Cooper, Douglas, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Madison, Maries, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Texas, Vernon, Wayne, and Webster. More counties may be added based on reports from local officials.

Joint PDA teams will start evaluations on April 22, comprising FEMA, SEMA, and local emergency management officials. The aim is to verify damage and determine eligibility for federal assistance through FEMA's Public Assistance program, which supports local governments and non-profit agencies in reimbursement for costs related to emergency response and recovery.

These assessments will run alongside those already conducted for Individual Assistance, which supports residents with temporary housing, housing repairs, and replacement of belongings.

Governor Kehoe has also sought help from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for agricultural damage assessments. This week's executive order extends previous orders, allowing Missouri's resources to continue aiding affected areas until May 14, 2025.

SEMA is coordinating with various partners for recovery efforts. Residents with damage are advised to file insurance claims promptly. Donations to relief efforts can be directed to organizations listed by National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. For additional help, Missourians are encouraged to contact the United Way or the American Red Cross. Comprehensive resources and information are available at recovery.mo.gov.