KC Reporter

Governor Mike Kehoe has announced the approval of two major disaster declarations by President Donald J. Trump in response to severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that affected Missouri on April 29 and May 16. The declarations aim to provide federal assistance to residents and local governments impacted by these events.

Governor Kehoe expressed gratitude for the prompt federal response, stating, "We are grateful for President Trump acting quickly to get vitally needed federal assistance to the thousands of Missourians hit hard by the violent severe weather that struck our state and who are now struggling to rebuild their lives and homes." He encouraged all eligible residents to apply for assistance promptly.

The approved Individual Assistance will be available for residents in St. Louis City, as well as St. Louis and Scott counties affected by the May 16 storms. This assistance includes support for temporary housing, repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses. Individuals can apply for FEMA disaster assistance online or through a toll-free registration line.

Housing Assistance may be provided for up to 18 months for displaced persons with heavily damaged or destroyed residences. Disaster Grants are also available for serious needs not covered by insurance or other aid programs. Additionally, Low-Interest Disaster Loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are accessible to homeowners and renters.

The FEMA Public Assistance program is available to local governments and nonprofits for repairing public infrastructure like roads and bridges damaged during both storm events. For the April 29 storms specifically, public assistance is extended across Barry, Greene, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton, and Washington counties.

The May 25 request from Governor Kehoe included over $57.9 million in Public Assistance qualifying expenses identified through Preliminary Damage Assessments with FEMA regarding the May 16 storms.

SEMA continues its collaboration with local officials along with volunteer groups to address unmet needs among impacted families in Missouri.