From staff reports
JEFFERSON CITY -- Gov. Jay Nixon today requested a federal major disaster declaration for the state of Missouri because of the tornadoes, hail, high winds and heavy rain that affected several parts of the state last week. The severe weather caused three deaths, numerous injuries and widespread destruction.
"Beginning last Tuesday night, the people of Missouri were hit once again by a deadly severe weather system that brought large-scale destruction to the state," Nixon said. "Three Missourians lost their lives, many others were injured, families lost their homes, and businesses were heavily damaged because of this severe weather system. As Missouri families recover and rebuild with the assistance of family, neighbors, volunteers and faith communities, I am asking the President to issue a major disaster declaration that would provide additional assistance to help these families move forward."
Joint damage assessments have been conducted in 18 Missouri counties impacted by the severe storm system. According to the National Weather Service, the system that moved through the state on Feb. 28-29 generated 12 tornadoes and produced widespread winds of 85- to 120-miles-per-hour across southern Missouri and parts of northern Missouri.
Nixon's request is for the following counties: Adair, Barry, Barton, Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Cedar, Dallas, Daviess, Laclede, Linn, Madison, Phelps, Polk, Pulaski, Scott, Stoddard, Stone and Taney.
On Feb. 29, Gov. Nixon declared a state of emergency in Missouri. The order activated the State Emergency Operations Center and enabled the state to mobilize its resources, including the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, to assist local authorities. That same day, the Governor also activated the Missouri National Guard to assist local authorities with security operations in southwest Missouri.
Nixon also traveled to Branson, Cassville, Buffalo, Puxico and Oak Ridge last Wednesday and Thursday to survey damage from the tornadoes and meet with local emergency officials.