Gov. Jay Nixon is asking the federal government to declare 70 Missouri counties — including Texas— as disaster areas after prolonged weather has resulted in flooding and other related problems.
The storm systems, which brought record rainfall to much of the state, extensively damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure, along with homes and businesses, and resulted in at least 10 deaths, the governor said Tuesday.
An assessment last week showed damage at nearly $800,000 in Texas County.
“Beginning in mid-May, more than half of Missouri has been hit by a damaging and prolonged weather system that’s brought record rainfall to much of the state and led to extensive damage to public infrastructure and private property and led to tragic deaths,” Nixon said. “Communities across the state have been hit with extensive response and rebuilding expenses. I’m asking that federal assistance be available to help with that effort.”
Public assistance allows local governments and eligible nonprofit agencies to seek assistance for response and recovery expenses associated with the severe weather and flooding.
Gov. Nixon first declared a state of emergency June 18 in Missouri. The governor’s order activated the State Emergency Operations Center and enabled the state to mobilize its resources, including the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to assist local authorities. Last week, the governor extended the state of emergency until Aug. 14.