White House declares federal disaster declaration for Missouri flooded areas

(From Gov. Eric Greitens)

The White House announced today that it has approved Missouri for a federal disaster declaration, unlocking additional federal funding to affected individuals and communities. The Governor’s May 24 disaster request estimated total losses and expenses of over $86M:
12 rivers exceeded flood records, causing damage to homes, businesses, bridges and roads
1,217 homes suffered major damage or were destroyed (an additional 678 homes received minor damage)
283 businesses were damaged or destroyed

The state is making preparations to immediately begin working with community action agencies, local and regional officials, and federal partners to deploy additional resources. Those in need of assistance and interested in applying for federal help are asked to call FEMA’s hotline 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or visit at www.DisasterAssistance.gov . You have 60 days from the date of the disaster declaration to register. The quicker you register, the quicker you can get FEMA assistance.

Additionally, as a result of flooding that took place in southern parts of the Midwest in early April, U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest economic injury disaster loans are now available to small non-farm businesses in the following eight Missouri counties that are contiguous to Arkansas: Barry, Butler, Dunklin, Oregon, Pemiscot, Ripley, Stone, and Taney counties. SBA assistance information and applications are available online here.

This week, the state covered a lot of ground to help citizens, businesses, and communities move forward with flood recovery efforts, starting with Gov. Eric Greitens appointing Patrick Baker as Missouri's Flood Recovery Coordinator. Baker comes from Lt. Governor Mike Parson’s Office. This is the first time a Missouri Governor has appointed a disaster recovery coordinator before a federal disaster declaration has been issued.

“While the flooding has had a devastating impact on Missouri communities, our state team is already leaning forward across departmental lines to ensure we do everything we can to support recovery and rebuilding,” Baker said. “Missourians are resilient and determined, and working as a team I am confident we’ll build communities stronger for the future.”