Waters of biblical proportions have engulfed parts of Missouri, forcing emergency responders into high gear to rescue stranded campers and residents alike. The torrential downpour that drenched the state on Friday has left a trail of devastation in its wake, prompting Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe to declare a state of emergency.
At Camp Taum Sauk in Lesterville, over 200 children and staff were airlifted to safety by Black Hawk helicopters after nearby roads became impassable due to floodwaters. The campers were eventually reunited with their families at a local elementary school, where they were met with relief and gratitude for the swift rescue efforts.
In another part of the state, near the Black River, three individuals who had taken shelter in trees were rescued on Friday evening after the Bearcat Getaway campground they sought refuge in collapsed under the weight of floodwaters. Meanwhile, a further 20 people were extracted from a building at yet another campsite.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued flash flood warnings for the affected region, with areas receiving between 15-30cm of rain as multiple thunderstorms swept through. Meteorologists have highlighted that these counties are popular recreational spots, boasting numerous campgrounds and float trip locations, making many visitors vulnerable to sudden and severe flooding.
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has activated the state's search and rescue teams to assist with the relief efforts. He confirmed that hundreds of people had been saved from floodwaters, rooftops, and stranded vehicles. However, one woman in Crawford County remains unaccounted for after her house was swept from its foundation by the flooding.