DISASTER DIARY – DECEMBER 30, 2015
State of Missouri devastated by heavy rains, historic flooding
Extreme weather has devastated the State of Missouri killing at least 13 people, with the death toll exceeding 50 across southern and central U.S.
In response to historic flooding in parts of Missouri, Gov. Nixon has activated the Missouri National Guard to support emergency response personnel. The Guard’s responsibilities will include providing security and preventing looting in evacuated areas.
The mobilization follows a state of emergency declaration in Missouri due to heavy rain and flooding.
As a result of this severe and prolonged storm system, river levels in some locations are predicted to exceed the historic crests during the Great Flood of 1993, according to a statement released by the governor’s office.
“As rivers rise to record levels, we are continuing to support Missouri communities and protect public safety during this historic flooding event,” said Gov. Nixon.
Flooding has already led to the evacuation of West Alton and caused hundreds of road closures across Missouri, including in St. Louis and all lanes of I-44 at Jerome near Rolla.
At least 13 flood-related deaths have been reported in Missouri, 12 of which were caused by vehicles being swept from flooded roadways.
“Highest Flood Records in History”
Forecasters at the National Weather Service (NWS) officials predict the Mississippi River at the Chester gauge, across the river from Perry County, will crest at 49.7 feet on Friday – matching the previous record set in 1993. In addition, the Mississippi River at Thebes south of Cape Girardeau is expected to crest at 47.5 feet on Saturday, nearly two feet above the previous record. Other rivers are also predicted to reach historic highs. For example, the Meramec River at Valley Park is forecast to crest at a record 42 feet.
Up to 15 million people across 9 states in the Midwestern United States were under flood warning, as of posting.
Eureka, MO completely cut off
The city of Eureka [pop: 12,000] located along Interstate 44 in St. Louis County, Missouri, is completely cut off by flood waters.
Additionally, floodwaters have swamped multiple other cities and towns including the cities of St. Louis and Pacific.
Thousand evacuated as Storm Frank hits UK
In the UK, Storm Frank has pummeled parts of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland leaving more severe floods in its wake, said a report.
“Scotland bore the brunt of the bad weather with hundreds of homes evacuated in the Borders towns of Dumfries, Hawick and Peebles.”
Severe flood warnings remain in place in several areas, following record-breaking rains. “The heaviest fell in Capel Curig in Wales, which had 1,000mm (39 inches) of rain, well above its December average of 300mm (12 inches).”
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