August 17th, 2026 Local News
Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Historic rainfall and life-threatening flash flooding prompted Governor Mike Kehoe on Friday to declare a State of Emergency for Missouri, activating the state's emergency response plan as dangerous conditions continue across central, south-central and southeastern Missouri.
Governor Kehoe signed Executive Order 26-16, which activates the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan. The declaration allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions, helping expedite emergency resources and response efforts as floodwaters continue to threaten communities.
"Over the past 24 hours, intense storms have created dangerous flash flooding across several regions of Missouri, resulting in multiple swift-water rescues," Governor Kehoe said. "Activating the State Emergency Operations Plan allows our agencies to move quickly, coordinate resources, and support local response efforts. I'm grateful for every first responder and local team member working around the clock to help save lives."
The governor also warned residents that the flooding threat is far from over.
"With additional heavy rain expected through the weekend, the threat is not over," Kehoe said. "If you're camping, floating, or spending time near rivers and streams, move to higher ground and stay alert of weather conditions. Missourians should continue to monitor local forecasts and follow the guidance of local authorities."
Several state agencies have already been deployed to assist local emergency responders, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, State Emergency Management Agency, Division of Fire Safety, Missouri State Parks and the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Officials say parts of the affected region have already received between six and twelve inches of rain. Missouri Task Force 1 has also been activated, sending 50 highly trained rescue personnel, specialized equipment and rescue boats into impacted areas.
The National Weather Service issued Flash Flood Emergencies for multiple locations Friday and warns that additional rounds of heavy rain are expected through the evening and into the weekend. Another two to four inches of rainfall are possible in some areas, with locally higher amounts, increasing the risk of additional flash flooding on already saturated ground.
State officials continue urging residents to remain weather aware, especially those living near rivers and streams. Missourians are encouraged to monitor forecasts, have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts, and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
Officials remind drivers that just six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet, while one foot of water can carry away most vehicles. More than half of Missouri's flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Nighttime flooding presents an even greater danger because floodwaters are much harder to see.
Anyone who becomes trapped by rising floodwaters should immediately call for help and move to higher ground if it can be done safely.