SEMA News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 20, 2025

Governor Kehoe Announces FEMA to Participate in Joint Damage Assessments for Public Assistance

Move comes two days after Governor requested damage assessments for homes and private property; next step in seeking federal disaster declaration

Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) of public infrastructure in 25 counties following the deadly tornadoes and severe storms that devastated much of Missouri March 14-15.

“These devastating storms and tornadoes not only destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses, but also severely impacted roads, bridges, and other critical public infrastructure,” Governor Kehoe said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been on the ground for several days helping local officials document damage, collect cost estimates and substantiate the need for federal Public Assistance. Initial damage reports clearly warrant a formal review by FEMA as part of the disaster declaration process.”

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: Benton, Bollinger, Butler, Callaway, Carter, Dent, Dunklin, Franklin, Gentry, Howell, Iron, Madison, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Reynolds, Ripley, St. Louis, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Wayne and Wright. Additional counties may be added as damage information is received from local officials.

To view the full release from Governor Kehoe's office, click here. 



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For more information, call 573-751-6294 or e-mail katy.linnenbrink@sema.dps.mo.gov