Gov. Parson activates state emergency operations plan

August 6, 2023 at 8:11 a.m.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson speaks at the state Capitol in this undated photo by the governor's office.

Gov. Mike Parson signed an executive order Saturday activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan in response to severe weather and flooding in the state since July 29.

In a news release, the governor's office noted tornadoes struck Friday, Aug. 4, in Ray, Saline and Knox counties. The Knox County tornado and strong winds destroyed or damaged at least 35 residences, displaced at least 16 people and caused minor injuries to two people in the Baring area. There was also substantial flooding overnight in the Kirksville area. The threat of additional severe weather continues to potentially affect communities across the state this weekend.

"Since July 29, Missouri has repeatedly been hit by severe weather and flooding that has damaged homes, businesses, and infrastructure,” Parson said in the release. “This ongoing weather system has also strained resources as first responders and public works crews continue to respond. We want to ensure that all necessary state resources are available as damaging weather continues to threaten Missouri communities."

The governor expressed gratitude for the work public employees, utility crews and volunteers have done in response to the severe weather, and urged residents to follow local forecasts and be prepared for additional threatening weather patterns.

Executive Order 23-08 will expire on Sept. 5 unless otherwise terminated or extended.

Additional resources:

National Weather Service forecast, radar, advisories at weather.gov/lsx.