As a proactive measure and in an effort to reduce response times and better serve the citizens in the areas affected, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has positioned a Bell 407 helicopter in West Plains.
The Bell 407 helicopter is specially equipped to conduct short-haul rescues should residents become trapped in rising floodwaters. Highway patrol pilots have completed training specific to such rescues.
Recent heavy rains have caused flash flooding in both the Troop D, Springfield, and Troop G, Willow Springs, areas.
Col. Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, urges the public to remain aware of flash flooding and avoid those areas if at all possible. MoDOT and local officials have placed barriers on some roadways to redirect the public away from hazardous areas. It is against the law to go around them.Â