Jefferson City - On May 8, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) of public infrastructure in six counties following the severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes that heavily damaged areas of southwest and southeast Missouri from April 28 to 29.  

“Last week, intense severe storms once again brought destruction to areas of Missouri, further burdening families, businesses, and communities already dealing with the aftermath of previous damaging severe weather,” Governor Kehoe said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been on the ground for days, helping local officials document damage. Our local partners and SEMA believe the emergency response costs and damage to roads, bridges, and other important public infrastructure warrant a formal review by FEMA and meet the levels required for a federal disaster declaration for Public Assistance.”

Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: Barry, Greene, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton and Washington. Additional counties may be added as damage information is received from local officials.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA and local emergency management officials. Beginning Tuesday, May 13, five teams will verify documented damage to determine if Public Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Public Assistance allows local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure.

SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials, other state agencies, and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. If you have damage, you should contact your insurance company and file a claim as soon as possible.

Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.