At least four fatalities were reported as relentless storms caused severe flooding, prompting state emergency response and challenges for voters
Missouri is reeling from the aftermath of catastrophic flooding that has claimed at least four lives, including two poll workers, in the wake of days of heavy rainfall, flash floods, and tornadoes. Governor Mike Parson activated an emergency operations plan on Tuesday to coordinate recovery efforts across the state, as the severe weather continues to cause widespread damage.
The storms, which began on Sunday, brought heavy rainfall of up to 10 inches, flash floods, and even tornadoes to parts of Missouri. The downpour caused dangerous conditions across the state, with emergency crews working tirelessly to rescue people trapped in floodwaters. As rainfall continued into Tuesday, the toll on Missouri’s communities became tragically clear.
On Tuesday morning, two poll workers from Wright County tragically lost their lives when the vehicle they were in was swept away by floodwaters on State Route H, near Manes. The Wright County Clerk’s Office confirmed the deaths, identifying the victims as a 70-year-old man and his 73-year-old wife, both of whom had volunteered to serve their community. Loni Pederson, the county clerk, described the couple as “dedicated to their community,” underscoring the loss felt by the local area. The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed the fatalities but has yet to release further details about the victims.
Tragically, two additional deaths were reported in St. Louis County. In the first case, a woman was found lifeless in her SUV after the floodwaters began to recede. It is believed she drove into the water at the height of the storm on Tuesday morning, and though the police are still investigating, the situation remains under review. Later that day, a man was discovered dead in a creek in the St. Louis area. Authorities suspect he drowned, but they are awaiting an autopsy to confirm the cause of death.
As the floodwaters continue to wreak havoc, reports of cars being swept off roads surfaced in Wright County early Tuesday. Fortunately, the occupants of those vehicles were able to swim to safety, avoiding further casualties. Despite the miracles of survival, the ongoing storm and flood risks have kept emergency workers on high alert, with authorities urging residents to exercise extreme caution in these volatile conditions.
The flooding has also impacted local voters, with some unable to reach polling stations on Election Day. The Missouri Secretary of State’s office confirmed that flooding had prevented some residents from casting their ballots in certain areas. In response, Governor Parson reassured voters that anyone in St. Louis City or County unable to access their designated polling place could vote at any other polling station within the city or county.
In light of the disaster, Missouri’s emergency operations have been ramped up, with officials emphasising their commitment to assisting those affected by the ongoing storm. Emergency operations in St. Louis are set to continue through Saturday morning, as storm conditions and flood risks are expected to persist throughout the week.
Missouri residents now face not only the immediate challenges of flood recovery but also the uncertainty of what more the storm may bring. With the rain and floodwaters showing no sign of abating, state officials are urging the public to stay vigilant and prepared for the worst. The road to recovery will likely be long, but Missouri’s communities are showing resilience as they work to rebuild from this tragic natural disaster.
