Flash flooding across parts of south-central and eastern Missouri prompted more than 200 water rescues, a state of emergency declaration and at least one death over the weekend.
Gov. Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency Friday after heavy rains of 6 to 12 inches damaged homes, roads, and campground in parts of Iron and Reynolds counties.
State leaders said there were more than 200 water rescues overnight Friday into Saturday in Crawford, Iron, Madison, Reynolds and Wayne counties. Missouri National Guard crews also evacuated 202 children and counselors from a summer camp near Lesterville after floodwaters cut off access to the area.
Kehoe praised first responders, National Guard members and emergency personnel for their rescue efforts as flood recovery operations continued.
The flooding also turned deadly in Crawford County. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Department said a woman who was reported missing during the flooding was found dead Saturday. Volunteer searchers located her about 1.8 miles downstream from her home along a creek.
Emergency management officials continue to warn Missourians to remain alert for additional heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding.
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