POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. (WSIL) � Governor Mike Kehoe toured multiple areas across Missouri after storms caused havoc on communities, resulting in loss of life, injuries and lots of structural damage in its wake.
Kehoe said Missouri State Emergency Operations Center team members are responding to areas hardest hit by the storms which devastated communities on the night of March 14.
There have been 11 fatalities reported as of midday on Saturday.
Local response teams, along with help from the state are helping those impacted by the storms.
“Friday and through the night, Missouri first responders, volunteers and our faith-based partners worked tirelessly in response to a series of devastating tornadoes and severe storms, and before that, dangerous and damaging fires,� said Governor Mike Kehoe. “Our state team members and responders are working to support communities, have begun to assess the damage with local partners, and will be gathering more information in the coming days. I appreciate the heroic work of all those who are assisting their fellow Missourians. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families grieving loved ones, and we stand with all those impacted by these devastating storms."
Kehoe declared a State of Emergency ahead of the storms on Friday which activating the State Emergency Operations Plan which then focused on support and recovery efforts.
Up to 19 tornadoes were reported across Missouri on Friday night. 25 counties were impacted by the storms.
The public is urged to avoid damaged areas to allow first responders to help those in need.
