In response to the severe storms and widespread flooding that began on March 30, Governor Mike Kehoe has formally requested that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) participate in joint preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) in 20 Missouri counties. This marks the state’s second effort in less than a month to secure a federal disaster declaration.
“Missouri has again been battered by severe storms and significant flooding, causing widespread destruction and disrupting the lives of many families and businesses across the state,” Governor Kehoe said. “SEMA and local officials have worked tirelessly to document the damage, and we believe it clearly meets FEMA’s threshold for disaster assistance.”
The joint PDAs are the first step toward securing federal aid, allowing FEMA and other agencies to assess the extent of damage alongside the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local emergency management officials.
The assessments will begin Tuesday, April 15, with six teams set to inspect the affected areas for potential eligibility for Individual Assistance, which can help residents with:
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Temporary housing
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Home repairs
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Replacement of personal property and vehicles
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Other disaster-related needs
The counties currently included in the request are:
Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Cooper, Carter, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Vernon, Washington, and Wayne. Additional counties may be added as local officials continue to report damages.
In parallel, damage assessments are also ongoing for public infrastructure such as roads and bridges. A separate request for Public Assistance PDAs is expected in the coming week.
SEMA is actively coordinating with volunteer organizations and faith-based partners to identify urgent needs and assist impacted families. Missourians who need help are encouraged to contact:
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United Way by dialing 2-1-1
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American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767
For more information on disaster recovery efforts, including cleanup guidance, housing support, and mental health resources, visit recovery.mo.gov.
