Disaster Number 1742

02/05/2008 - Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding

In January 2008, central and southern Missouri were impacted by a severe storm system that produced tornadoes, high wind, hail, and flooding. Two people were killed and more than 30 injuries were reported as a result of this storm.  Utility companies had over 6,000 reports of customers without power throughout the storm.  Tornadoes, high winds, and flooding caused significant damages to residences and businesses across the area.

On Jan. 7, Gov. Matt Blunt ordered activation of the State Emergencies Operation Plan. On the same day, Gov. Blunt also declared a State of Emergency for the affected central and southern portions of Missouri.

On Jan. 8, Gov. Blunt requested that damage assessment be conducted in the affected areas. During the assessment it was determined that approximately 435 primary residences were impacted by the storm.

On Jan. 22, Gov. Blunt requested that a major disaster be declared in Missouri by President George Bush, requesting Public Assistance and Individual Assistance for the affected areas.

On Feb. 5, a disaster declaration was granted by President Bush for both Public Assistance only. Counties included in the disaster declaration were Barry, Dallas, Laclede, Maries, McDonald, Newton, Phelps, Stone and Webster. The major disaster declaration provided public assistance to the affected counties for emergency protective measures, debris removal, and permanent work to repair or replace facilities damaged by the severe storm.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides federal funds to reimburse 75 percent of the costs for removing debris, conducting emergency activities and repairing roads, bridges, utility and water control facilities, public buildings and parks.

More information on this disaster is available on FEMA's website.