Missouri floods: Over 200 children airlifted from summer camp as storms batter state

Missouri is grappling with severe flooding after days of heavy rainfall, prompting the emergency evacuation of over 200 children and staff from Camp Taum Sauk in Lesterville. Black Hawk helicopters from the army national guard airlifted the campers to safety at a nearby elementary school, where they were reunited with their families. The camp expressed gratitude to emergency crews for ensuring the community's safety.

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We are beyond thankful for your help keeping our camp community safe.

In a separate incident near the Black River, about 85 miles south of St. Louis, approximately 20 campers were rescued from a building that collapsed while they were seeking refuge from the rising waters. The structure reportedly gave way due to the combined weight and constant water pressure.

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Between the weight and the constant waters underneath it, it just gave away on them.

Reynolds County also saw three individuals rescued from trees along the Black River. While no major injuries or fatalities have been reported, a woman in Crawford County is missing after her home was swept from its foundation. The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings for the region, which experienced 6-12 inches of rain, exacerbating the danger in popular recreational areas.

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It’s very, very popular place for recreation. So there are campgrounds there. There are float trip locations there. A lot of vulnerable populations that would be susceptible to flash flooding.

Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency and mobilized search and rescue teams. He noted that hundreds of people had been rescued from various perilous situations, including floodwaters, trees, rooftops, and stranded vehicles. Several major roads are impassable, and the Black River is expected to reach a record crest near Annapolis, prompting warnings for residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and prepared for potential evacuation.

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As recovery efforts continue and additional rain is expected, I urge everyone in flood-prone and low-lying areas to stay weather-aware, have multiple ways of receiving alerts and be ready to take protective action.