Crawford County Included In Disaster Declaration

Crawford County has been included in a major federal disaster declaration approved by President Joe Biden following a request from Gov. Mike Parson. 

The declaration provides critical assistance to local governments and nonprofit agencies in response to severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that struck the region from Nov. 3-9, causing extensive damage to public infrastructure.

Under the declaration, federal public assistance funds will be available to repair damaged roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure, as well as to reimburse emergency response and recovery costs. 

Parson’s initial request on Nov. 26 identified nearly $45 million in qualifying expenses across the affected counties.

“This is important news as the communities impacted by November storms continue on the path to recovery,” Parson said. “We appreciate the President making federal assistance available, which will provide millions of dollars in much needed support to help our local partners repair roads, bridges, and other critically important infrastructure.”

Crawford County is one of 14 counties included in the disaster declaration, alongside Carter, Dent, Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Shannon, Texas, Washington, and Wright counties. 

The declaration also activates the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Program statewide, which offers funding for cost-effective projects to reduce the risk of future damage to public infrastructure.

Residents in Crawford County and other affected areas who have unmet needs are encouraged to reach out to United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional disaster recovery resources, visit recovery.mo.gov.