State Emergency Management Agency Homepage Quick Navigation Skip to Main Content Online Services SEMA Facebook Page Plan & Prepare Tornadoes Severe Thunderstorms Severe Winter Weather Flooding Earthquakes Extreme Heat Fires Dam Failure Hazardous Materials Severe Thunderstorms Severe Winter Weather Hazardous Materials Recover & Rebuild Assistance Resources Avoid Scams & Fraud Damage Assessment Process Volunteer/Donate Federal Disaster Declaration Process Health & Safety Considerations Missouri Disasters Missouri Flooding Recovery: Debris Removal State Disaster Recovery Framework Emergency Management 101: State’s Role in Disaster Response & Recovery Assistance Resources Avoid Scams & Fraud Damage Assessment Process Volunteer/Donate Federal Disaster Declaration Process Health & Safety Considerations Missouri Disasters Missouri Flooding Recovery: Debris Removal State Disaster Recovery Framework Emergency Management 101: State’s Role in Disaster Response & Recovery Operations Activation Levels Mo DMAT-1 / Mo MORT-1 Missouri First Informer Broadcasters Act Regional Map Activation Levels Mo DMAT-1 / Mo MORT-1 Missouri First Informer Broadcasters Act Programs Emergency Management Performance Grants Floodplain Management Emergency Human Services Missouri Emergency Response Commission Missouri WebEOC Mitigation Management Public Assistance Program SAVE Coalition Statewide Regional Coordinators Program Training and Exercises Disaster Chaplaincy Program Missouri Public Health Risk Assessment Tool Missouri Disaster Assistance Program Emergency Management Performance Grants Floodplain Management Emergency Human Services Missouri Emergency Response Commission Missouri WebEOC Mitigation Management Public Assistance Program Statewide Regional Coordinators Program Training and Exercises Disaster Chaplaincy Program Missouri Public Health Risk Assessment Tool Missouri Disaster Assistance Program News & Publications Recent News Archived News Videos Publications Forms SEMA Daily Brief SEMA Daily Brief Flooding is the deadliest severe weather hazard in Missouri, with the vast majority of fatalities occurring during flash flooding and affecting people in vehicles. In 2024, flooding killed nine people in the state. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states. There are major differences between flash floods and those that develop slowly over a period of days and even weeks. Overland flooding occurs outside a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, and, while slower developing, is destructive and potentially deadly. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods. Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Be aware that very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts or dry streambeds that appear harmless in dry weather are often the most dangerous areas when flash flooding occurs. Many flash flooding deaths occur when vehicles are swept off low-water crossings that are not meant to be crossed during flooding. Preventing Flooding Deaths in Missouri Never expect barriers to block off flooded low-water crossings or bridges. Floodwaters often rise so quickly authorities cannot close a road in time. Some motorists never see the high water until it’s too late because of poor visibility due to darkness or heavy rain. Be alert for high water whenever flash flooding is forecast. Slow down when visibility is limited. Don’t drive if you don’t have to when flash flooding is occurring in your area. ALWAYS turn around. Don’t drown. Never think that because you made it across a flooded low water crossing in the past that you’ll make it the next time. 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. Just six inches of water can cause loss of control and stalling in vehicles, and two feet of rushing water can sweep most vehicles away. Cars will float when the force of the water is greater than the force of friction. Sand and mud that come with flash flooding reduce the friction force of gravity holding the car in place. Think about everything you could lose before trying to save a few minutes by not turning around. If you wind up in flood water and your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and wash it away. On average, flash flooding kills 140 people each year in the U.S. with the over half of those deaths occurring in vehicles. In 2015, flooding killed 27 people in Missouri, with 11 people in vehicles dying during torrential rain and flash flooding on one night alone. The great majority of people died in flash flooding, and 23 of the 27 people who died were in motor vehicles. Flash Flood Safety Rules at Home or Work When a flash flood watch is issued...be alert to signs of flash flooding and be prepared to evacuate on a moment’s notice. When a flash flood warning is issued for your area, or the moment you realize that a flash flood is imminent, act quickly to save yourself. You may only have seconds!

Go to higher ground – climb to safety. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc. Avoid already flooded and high velocity flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening weather conditions. Children should never play around high water, storm drains, viaducts or arroyos. If you come upon a flowing stream where the water is above your ankles, stop! Turn around and go another way. If water is moving swiftly, even water six inches deep can knock you off your feet. Preparedness tips before a flood Create a plan for where you and your family will go in the event of a flood. Always be alert to changing weather conditions: Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information. Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move. Be aware of streams, drainage channels and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain. What to do in the aftermath of a flood Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink. Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. Avoid moving water. Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company. Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations. Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards. Clean and disinfect everything that became wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals. What to do if you have unmet needs following a flood Throughout the recovery period, it is important to monitor local radio or television reports and other media sources for information about where to get emergency housing, food, first aid, clothing, and financial assistance. The following section provides general information about the kinds of assistance that may be available. Direct Assistance Direct assistance to individuals and families may come from any number of organizations, including: Missouri chapters of the Red Cross: Greater St. Louis Central and Northern Missouri Southeast Missouri Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri Southern Missouri Ft. Leonard Wood Other volunteer and faith-based organizations Governor’s Faith-Based and Community Service Partnership for Disaster Recovery These organizations provide food, shelter, supplies and assist in clean-up efforts. Detailed additional information can be found at the following websites: National Weather Service – St. Louis Office National Weather Service – Kansas City Office National Weather Service – Springfield Office National Weather Service – Paducah Office National Weather Service – Memphis Office National Weather Service – Quad Cities Office Missouri's Ready in 3 Program also provides free family safety guides to help prepare your family and household or call (573) 526-4768 to order a free family safety guide. The family safety guide is available in several languages. Other Resources Related Information Informational Videos SEMA Floodplain Management and National Flood Insurance Program Being Storm Aware Common Flooding Terms Stay informed about storms with a NOAA Weather Radio, text alerts, television or commercial radio. Understand what NOAA terms mean: Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible within the designated watch area – BE ALERT. Flash Flood Warning: Flash flooding has been reported or is imminent – TAKE NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS AT ONCE. Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information. Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory: Flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring. Flood Statement: Follow up information regarding a flash flood event. Contact Information State Emergency Management Agency 2302 Militia Drive P.O. Box 116 Jefferson City, MO 65102 Phone: (573) 526-9100 Fax: (573) 634-7966 Email Us