Governor Parson signs order activating State Emergency Operations Plan in response to severe weather

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KIMZ)

Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 23-08 Saturday, activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan in response to severe weather and flooding that has been impacting the state.

This order comes just one day after different E-F tornadoes hit counties in the state on Friday, forcing some people to regroup and find shelter elsewhere.

Parson said in a news release the State wants to ensure that all necessary state resources are available to help keep people safe if needed.

Due to conditions, the state is urging all Missourians to follow local weather forecasts and to be prepared to protect themselves and their loved ones if severe weather threatens their communities.

Friday, (EF-0) tornadoes struck Ray and Saline counties, and one (EF-2) tornado struck Knox County. The Knox County tornado and strong winds destroyed or did major damage to at least 35 residences and forced at least 16 people in the Baring area to find new places to go.

Two minor injuries were also reported in the Baring area along with substantial flooding overnight being reported in the Kirksville area.

ABC 17 also talked to the city of Holts Summit and the Red Cross about storm shelters. This comes as 30 people were kept safe in a public storm shelter in Holts Summit on Friday.

Missouri State Emergency Management Agency has provided information on how to prepare for severe weather, flooding, and tornadoes.

Tips you can keep in mind:

• If you are outside and a tornado is approaching, get into a ditch or gully. If possible, lie flat and cover your head with your arms.
• Don’t drive if you don’t have to when flash flooding is occurring in your area.
• Never be tempted to drive into floodwater because it appears shallow. Looks are deceiving and the roadway may not be intact. Floodwater often washes out roads or compromises their structural integrity.
• Turn around. Don’t drown.
• Remember "If thunder roars, go indoors" because no place outside is safe when lightning is in the area. Everyone should stay indoors until 30 minutes after they hear the last clap of thunder.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.

Gov. Parson says the executive order is set to expire on Sept.5 unless it is otherwise terminated or extended.