Kehoe declares state of emergency ahead of severe storms

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signed an executive order on Friday declaring a state of emergency ahead of severe storms that are expected to enter the area this evening.

The potential of hazardous storms with damaging winds and hail prompted the ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team to declare Friday a Weather Alert Day.

Kehoe’s order activates the state’s emergency operations plan which enables state agencies to coordinate with local jurisdiction “to expedite assistance.”

“This Executive Order is a proactive step to ensure our emergency management teams are fully prepared should these storms require immediate action to protect Missourians," Kehoe was quoted in the release. “While the State Emergency Operations Center is activating to support any necessary coordination efforts, Missourians should take this forecast seriously and be ready to act if conditions worsen."