Historic Disaster Declaration Granted: Governor Parson’s Pivotal Approval

JANUARY 2, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson revealed that President Joe Biden has sanctioned his appeal for a major federal disaster proclamation to support local municipalities and nonprofit organizations across 14 counties in response to the devastating storms, tornadoes, and flooding that took place from November 3 to 9, 2024, causing extensive damage to public facilities.

The proclamation authorizes federal public support for the restoration of damaged roadways, bridges, and other public facilities, in addition to reimbursement for associated urgent response and recovery expenses. The Governor’s request submitted on November 26 encompassed nearly $45 million in eligible costs already recognized.

“This is significant news as the communities affected by the November storms proceed on their road to recovery,” Governor Parson stated. “We value the President’s action in making federal support accessible, which will ensure millions of dollars in essential assistance to aid our local partners in restoring roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure.”

The counties included in the President’s disaster proclamation are: Carter, Crawford, Dent, Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Shannon, Texas, Washington, and Wright.

The disaster proclamation also provides aid on a state level via the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Program, which assists with economical strategies to decrease the likelihood of future damage to public infrastructure resulting from natural disasters.

Residents of Missouri with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by calling 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For further resources and information regarding disaster recovery in Missouri, please visit recovery.mo.gov.