Governor Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency in Missouri as a widespread severe weather system continued to move across the state, bringing heavy rain, hail, straight-line winds, flooding and radar-indicated tornadoes. This severe weather follows several days of heavy rain throughout much of the state, leading to flooding along many streams and rivers. The severe weather threat continues tonight (June 1) in parts of Missouri, and is likely to continue tomorrow for much of the state.

“Much of Missouri is experiencing dangerous severe weather tonight, on the heels of several days of heavy rain,” Gov. Nixon said. “I urge Missourians to closely monitor weather conditions, so they can take shelter or move to higher ground if needed. The risk of severe weather remains with us well into Saturday (June 1). The state of Missouri will continue to work closely with local officials to help protect lives and property from these storms.”

The State Emergency Operations Center has been actively monitoring the storm system this week. Gov. Nixon has been receiving updates from his emergency management team, including senior officials from the Missouri Department of Public Safety, Missouri National Guard, Missouri State Highway Patrol and State Emergency Management Agency to assess the current weather situation and address local needs.

Gov. Nixon has also activated the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions to provide emergency services.

Press Release Courtesy of Missouri Governor Press Secretary Scott Holste

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