Governor Mike Kehoe Provides Update on Missouri's Storm Response and Recovery Efforts

MARCH 16, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe provided an update on Missouri’s recovery efforts following the devastating tornadoes that struck on March 14, leaving widespread destruction across 27 counties.

The storm has resulted in 12 confirmed fatalities, with one person still missing. Hundreds of homes, schools, and businesses have been either destroyed or severely damaged. At the height of the storm, more than 140,000 homes and businesses were without power, and 101 roads were closed due to debris, flooding, and structural damage. While significant progress has been made, approximately 47,000 customers remain without power as crews continue restoration efforts. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) also had reports of over 130 wildland fires on Friday, some of which damaged homes and structures.

"The scale of devastation across our state is staggering," said Governor Kehoe. "While we grieve the lives of those lost, we are also focused on action—getting power restored, clearing debris, and ensuring our communities have the resources they need to recover. The strength and resilience of Missourians are already on display, and we will be with them every step of the way."

Ahead of the storm on Friday, Governor Kehoe issued a State of Emergency declaration, which allowed first responders, road crews, and emergency management officials to move quickly. The Missouri's State Emergency Operations Plan remains in effect.

  • Damage Assessments and Federal Support: SEMA regional coordinators continue working swiftly with local emergency managers to make initial damage assessments in preparation for a federal major disaster declaration request. To expedite the process, SEMA has shifted additional regional coordinators into the most heavily impacted areas of the state. SEMA staff are coordinating resource requests from local emergency managers for needed supplies, materials, and support services with sheltering, debris clearance, damage assessments, and other needs.
  • White House Coordination: Governor Kehoe has been in direct contact with the White House and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials, who have assured him they are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to assist as soon as Missouri request is submitted.

Governor Kehoe and state officials spent yesterday surveying some of the hardest-hit areas, including Wayne, Butler, and Jefferson counties. Wayne County alone saw six of the 12 reported fatalities, underscoring the storm's devastating impact.

All levels of government are fully engaged, and recovery efforts continue across the state.

  • The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) crews have all been deployed to clear debris, reopen roadways, and ensure the safety of Missourians across all affected counties.
  • Utility companies, including investor-owned, municipal, and cooperative providers, are working around the clock to restore power.
  • Emergency shelters remain open in impacted areas, offering food, medical support, and temporary housing for displaced residents.

SEMA also continues to coordinate with volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist residents over the coming days and weeks. The American Red Cross of Missouri has opened shelters at the following locations for individuals and families that have been displaced or otherwise impacted:

  • Franklin County: Moose Lodge | 905 Highway 50, Union, MO 63084
  • Howell County: First United Methodist Church | 503 W Main St., West Plains, MO 65775
  • Jefferson County: St. David’s Catholic Church | 2334 Tenbrook Rd., Arnold, MO 63010
  • Phelps County: First Baptist Church | 801 N Cedar St., Rolla, MO 65401
  • Louis County: North County Rec Plex | 2577 Redman Avenue, St Louis MO 63136

Residents who have experienced damage to their homes, cars and property should contact their insurance company and document damage with photographs. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

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