Missouri Flooding Traps Hundreds; Campers Airlifted

Flash flooding caused by heavy rainfall trapped hundreds of people in southeastern Missouri, prompting helicopter evacuations and rescue operations. More than 200 children and staff were airlifted from Camp Taum Sauk near Lesterville using Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopters after nearby roads washed out, leaving no safe routes for ground transportation.

The evacuees were taken to a nearby elementary school where they were reunited with their families. Governor Mike Kehoe praised the rescue efforts in a statement:

Missouri's first responders once again answered the call with extraordinary bravery, professionalism, and compassion.

Meanwhile, about 20 people at Bearcat Getaway Campground near the Black River had climbed onto a building to escape rising waters when it collapsed due to the weight and constant water pressure. Three others were rescued from trees in the Black River. As of Friday evening, there have been no reports of major injuries or fatalities.

However, one woman remains missing in Crawford County after her house was swept away by floodwaters. The missing person has been identified as Faith Gregory. Family and friends resumed their search on social media, urging others to look out for Gregory and her dogs, who were also swept away. Governor Kehoe declared a state of emergency and activated search and rescue teams to assist with recovery efforts.

The Black River is expected to crest at over 28 feet near Annapolis, which would set a record for the waterway. The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings after thunderstorms dumped between 6-12 inches of rain in the region. Governor Kehoe urged residents in flood-prone areas to stay weather-aware and be prepared to take protective action as additional rain is expected.

The severe weather affects a wide region stretching from the Ozark Mountains in southern Missouri eastward into much of the Ohio and Tennessee river valleys. The storms could bring damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and scattered flash flooding to the multistate region, extending into Sunday in some places. Matt Beitscher, a lead meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in St. Louis, noted that the affected counties are popular for recreation, including campgrounds and float trip locations.

In Reynolds County, two rescue boats capsized in the flooding, but other emergency personnel safely recovered the responders, according to the Sheriff’s Office.