Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has declared a state of emergency as catastrophic flooding, described by meteorologists as a "once-in-a-millennium" event, inundates parts of the state. Relentless thunderstorms have dumped between six and 12 inches of rain in southeastern Missouri, causing rivers to surge to historic levels, leading to collapsed structures, stranded residents, and a significant number of water rescues.
The National Weather Service has issued flash flood warnings for the affected areas, where thousands have been placed under emergency status. Emergency crews have conducted more than 90 water rescues in Reynolds County alone, according to the county sheriff's office. The Black River reached an all-time high of 28.7 feet on Friday.
Among the most perilous rescues, approximately 20 people were saved after a building at the Bearcat Getaway campground near the Black River collapsed under the strain of the floodwaters. The individuals had reportedly sought refuge on the structure before it gave way, necessitating their extraction from the raging currents by emergency responders.
The extreme weather also posed risks to first responders. A Missouri State Highway Patrol boat became entangled in a submerged line during a rescue mission, forcing the two troopers aboard to abandon the vessel and enter the floodwaters. Both troopers made it to shore safely without injury.
Officials have warned that the danger is ongoing, with rivers continuing to rise and additional flooding anticipated. Several major roads have become impassable due to the deluge, and a family reunification center has been established to assist those affected. National Guard helicopters have been deployed to aid residents cut off by the rising waters, and one of the state's urban search-and-rescue teams has been activated.
Meteorologists noted that the repeated rounds of thunderstorms created a highly vulnerable situation in counties popular for recreation, including campgrounds and float trip locations, which are often susceptible to flash flooding. The National Weather Service indicated that the heavy rainfall totals were concentrated in central and eastern Missouri.
