Heavy rainfall and flash flooding forced emergency rescues across Missouri, including the evacuation of more than 200 children and staff from a summer camp, as severe weather swept across parts of the state.
State officials said hundreds of people were rescued from floodwaters, while emergency crews continued searching for one missing woman after a home was swept from its foundation. The severe weather also prompted flood warnings across several neighboring states.
Flooding
Powerful storms brought heavy rain to southern Missouri on Friday, causing rivers to rise rapidly and flooding roads, campgrounds, and residential areas.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm system affected a broad region stretching from the Ozark Mountains into portions of the Ohio and Tennessee river valleys.
Forecasters warned that additional rainfall could lead to more flash flooding through the weekend, particularly in areas that had already received between 6 and 12 inches of rain.
Rescue
One of the largest rescue operations took place at Camp Taum Sauk near Lesterville in southeastern Missouri.
Floodwaters washed out roads leading to the camp, leaving more than 200 children and staff stranded.
The Missouri Army National Guard used Black Hawk helicopters to airlift campers and staff to a nearby elementary school, where they were reunited with their families.
Camp Taum Sauk later thanked emergency responders in a social media post for helping keep everyone safe.
Emergency
Additional rescues were carried out across Reynolds County as floodwaters continued to rise.
Authorities said campers at the Bearcat Getaway campground sought refuge on top of a building after being surrounded by floodwaters. The structure later collapsed under the combined force of the water and the weight of those sheltering on it.
Emergency crews also rescued three people who became trapped in trees along the Black River.
| Flood Response | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Missouri |
| Camp Evacuated | Camp Taum Sauk |
| People Airlifted | More than 200 |
| Rescue Aircraft | Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopters |
| Missing Person | One woman |
| Emergency Status | State of emergency declared |
Search
Authorities continued searching Saturday for Faith Gregory, who was reported missing after floodwaters swept a house from its foundation in Crawford County.
Family members and friends shared appeals on social media asking the public to watch for Gregory and her dogs, which were also carried away by the floodwaters.
Officials said she remained the only person unaccounted for in the county.
Response
Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency and activated state search and rescue resources.
According to the governor, hundreds of people were rescued from flooded homes, rooftops, trees, stranded vehicles, and other dangerous locations.
Officials also warned that the Black River was expected to reach record flood levels near Annapolis, Missouri, prompting continued monitoring and evacuation efforts where necessary.
Weather
The National Weather Service warned that severe thunderstorms could continue affecting parts of Missouri and neighboring states, including Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
Heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and additional flash flooding remained possible as the slow-moving weather system shifted southward.
Residents in flood-prone areas were advised to remain alert for weather warnings and be prepared to move to higher ground if conditions worsened.
Emergency crews continue recovery and search operations as communities assess flood damage across southern Missouri. Officials are urging residents to avoid flooded roadways, monitor weather alerts, and follow evacuation instructions as additional rainfall remains possible in affected areas.
FAQs
How many campers were rescued?
More than 200 children and staff were airlifted.
Which camp was evacuated?
Camp Taum Sauk in southeastern Missouri.
Who remains missing?
Authorities continue searching for Faith Gregory.
Who carried out the airlift?
The Missouri Army National Guard.
Did Missouri declare an emergency?
Yes, Gov. Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency.
