Missouri flood rescues over 200 children from summer camp and 20 others from collapsed campground
Heavy rain and flooding in southeastern Missouri forced the evacuation of more than 200 children and staff from a summer camp and the rescue of about 20 people after a campground building collapsed.
More than 200 children and staff were airlifted from Camp Taum Sauk in Lesterville, Missouri, after heavy rain and flooding cut off road access, state highway patrol Sgt. Eddie Young said. Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopters transferred the evacuees to a nearby elementary school where families were reunited with them.
At the Bearcat Getaway campground near the Black River, about 85 miles south of St. Louis, roughly 20 people sought shelter on a building that later collapsed under the weight of occupants and rising water, Young added.
Three individuals were rescued from trees along the Black River in Reynolds County, while a woman remains missing after her house was swept from its foundation in Crawford County.
The National Weather Service reported 6-12 inches of rain in the affected area and issued flash-flood warnings, noting the region’s popularity for recreation and the presence of vulnerable populations. Meteorologist Matt Beitscher warned that further heavy rain could produce “considerable flood impacts.”
Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency, activated a state search-and-rescue team, and warned that the Black River could crest above 28 feet, a potential record level. He urged residents in flood-prone areas to stay weather-aware and prepared for additional rain.
Two rescue boats capsized in Reynolds County, but emergency crews recovered the responders safely, according to the sheriff’s office.