JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (Press release edited/) — Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced that the state has begun receiving federal disaster assistance in response to the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred November 3-9.

“Last week’s severe weather system brought damaging storms, heavy rains and major flooding that significantly damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure in 14 Missouri counties,” Governor Parson said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) worked closely with local officials to document the damage, and initial reports clearly warrant a formal review by FEMA as part of the federal disaster declaration process.”

The state has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to participate in joint preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) in the following counties: Carter, Crawford, Dent, Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Shannon, Texas , Washington and Wright.

Joint PDA teams consist of representatives from FEMA, SEMA and local emergency managers who document storm damage and estimate recovery costs. Four teams will review documented damage together to determine if Public Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Public assistance allows local governments and eligible nonprofit agencies to apply for federal assistance to reimburse emergency response and recovery costs, including the repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.

Requesting joint PDAs is one of the first steps the state must take in requesting a major federal disaster declaration. For Public Assistance, both state and county thresholds must be met for a county to be included in the application.

On Tuesday, November 5, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 24-14 declaring a state of emergency and activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan. This plan allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions to provide assistance.

SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials, collegiate state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist affected families and individuals. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

For additional resources and information on disaster recovery in Missouri, including general information on cleanup, housing assistance, and mental health services, please visit recovery.mo.gov.

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