Michael L. Parson, 57th Governor of Missouri | Missouri Gov. Michael Parson
Michael L. Parson, 57th Governor of Missouri | Missouri Gov. Michael Parson
Today, Governor Mike Kehoe of Missouri has formally requested President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster for six counties affected by severe storms on April 29. These storms, which resulted in eight tornadoes, caused significant damage in Barry, Greene, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton, and Washington counties.
Governor Kehoe highlighted the severity of the situation: “This season’s weather pattern has brought one destructive severe storm after another to Missouri, and the April 29 storms led to widespread damage in six counties – damage that is simply beyond their capabilities and those of the state to sustain without federal assistance.” He emphasized the ongoing community efforts to rebuild and support each other following another round of destructive storms on May 16.
The governor's request includes Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance due to documented damages exceeding $16.5 million. These assessments were conducted jointly by FEMA, the State Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local officials. Damages include those inflicted upon a public elementary school, a Missouri Department of Transportation facility, utility lines, roads, and other infrastructure.
If granted, this assistance would enable local governments and qualifying nonprofits to seek reimbursement for emergency response costs and repairs. Residents with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way or the American Red Cross for support.
Governor Kehoe has been actively pursuing federal aid following several major storms in Missouri this year. For instance:
- On April 2, he requested aid for March 14-15 storms affecting 28 counties.
- On May 1, he sought assistance for March 30 - April 8 events impacting 26 counties.
- On May 19 alone, requests were made for both April 29 incidents and further damage from May 16 storms that led to seven fatalities in St. Louis and southeast Missouri.
Further information about disaster recovery resources can be found at recovery.mo.gov.
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