KC Reporter

Governor Mike Kehoe commended the joint recovery efforts in St. Louis following the EF-3 tornado that struck on May 16, causing significant damage and loss of life. The State of Missouri responded promptly, deploying resources and personnel to aid in law enforcement, traffic control, and cleanup operations.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Department of Transportation were among the first responders, with Governor Kehoe activating Missouri Task Force 1 for search operations. Initial damage assessments by the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) facilitated Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance approvals.

Governor Kehoe remarked on the community's resilience: “From the moments immediately after the EF-3 tornado struck and each day since, Missourians have shown they will come to the aid for their neighbors, no matter how daunting the task before them.”

SEMA has been instrumental in coordinating emergency management support across various domains including logistics and medical care. Director Mark James praised SEMA’s efforts: “I have never been more impressed with the performance, professionalism, and dedication of any group of public servants than with SEMA’s effort to support the people of St. Louis.”

Missouri Task Force 1 conducted extensive searches using advanced technology while SEMA's Disaster Medical Assistance Team provided essential services at shelters. The Operations Division played a crucial role in ongoing response efforts.

Recovery initiatives included joint damage assessments identifying significant destruction, leading to requests for federal disaster declarations. These efforts culminated in FEMA approving financial assistance by June 12.

Numerous organizations contributed to relief efforts through shelter provision, meal distribution, and supply donations. The Disaster Assistance Center opened on June 9 as a hub for various forms of aid.

Other state departments like Health and Senior Services provided public health support while Commerce and Insurance offered guidance on insurance claims. Environmental waivers were issued by Natural Resources to expedite cleanup processes.

The Department of Social Services facilitated SNAP benefit replacements for affected individuals while Labor Relations managed unemployment claims under federal disaster provisions.

Efforts continue with workforce development funds allocated for temporary employment opportunities related to storm recovery. The Department of Revenue extended deadlines for those impacted by aligning with IRS timelines.

Mental Health services were deployed to offer crisis counseling as part of ongoing support measures in St. Louis.

Photos documenting these efforts are available online.