More than 200 people at summer camp airlifted to safety as Missouri faces flooding

Heavy rainfall and widespread flooding in Missouri on Friday led to the helicopter evacuation of over 200 children and staff from Camp Taum Sauk in Lesterville. Nearby roads were washed out, trapping the campers. Additionally, about 20 people were rescued from a collapsed campground building near the Black River after seeking safety from rising waters. The Missouri governor declared a state of emergency and activated search and rescue teams, with hundreds saved from various flood-related situations. While no major injuries or fatalities were reported, one woman was missing after her house was swept away. Flash flood warnings were issued for the affected areas, which experienced significant rainfall.

Emergency crews rescued approximately 20 people from a collapsed campground building in Reynolds County, Missouri, on Friday following severe flooding and heavy rainfall. The building at Bearcat Getaway campground, located near the Black River, collapsed while campers were on its roof, leading to their rescue from the water. Responders conducted over 90 water rescues for campers and individuals in vehicles across central and eastern Missouri, which experienced between 6 and 12 inches of rain. Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency and activated search and rescue teams due to impassable roads and widespread flooding. Despite two rescue boats capsizing, all responders were safely recovered.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has declared a state of emergency due to severe storms and flash flooding impacting central, south-central, and southeastern regions of the state. The declaration activates the state's emergency operations plan, enabling state agencies to coordinate with local jurisdictions and expedite assistance. Intense storms have already caused dangerous flash flooding and multiple swift-water rescues, with 6 to 12 inches of rain reported in some areas. Additional heavy rain is expected through the weekend, prompting warnings for residents to move to higher ground and monitor local forecasts. State agencies, including the highway patrol and emergency management, are deployed with specialized equipment to assist affected homes, roads, and campgrounds. The National Weather Service has issued Flash Flood Emergencies and flood watches for several counties, warning of likely numerous flash floods and advising against travel through flooded areas.