Missouri’s governor has activated resources to help hurricane-torn Florida.
Gov. Mike Parson said before Hurricane Milton made landfall that personnel from Missouri would be headed to Florida to help with recovery efforts.
Parson ordered 100 Missouri National Guard members, 21 Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers and civilian support staff, and five Missouri Disaster Medical Assistance Team members to Florida.
Preparations are being made for Missouri personnel to arrive in Florida once the immediate threats of Hurricane Milton passes. They will assist in Florida for five to 20 days, depending on response and recovery needs. Potential extensions and additional deployments may be assessed in coordination with Florida’s emergency response agencies.
The cost of the combined deployment is estimated at $1.6 million and will be covered primarily by the governor’s office’s discretionary emergency response fund. The state could potentially be reimbursed by the federal government.
The National Guard’s assistance to Florida consists of transportation and logistics support. Vehicles from its transportation company can travel off road and over adverse terrain to deliver needed food, water and other supplies and capabilities to the point of need. These assets were identified to fill critical capability gaps and meet anticipated needs on the ground. Ongoing coordination with state and federal partners will define the full mission.
The patrol is rostering a team of 15 troopers and six civilians with the technical expertise, equipment and supplies to support operations for a sustained period. The patrol is determined to assist Florida authorities and residents during this emergency without compromising the level of service it provides every day in Missouri. The disaster team members will support any medical or logistical needs of the patrol.
To date, Missouri has not received any direct requests from states affected by Hurricane Helene but is prepared to consider any requests should they be received.
Individuals interested in helping are encouraged to direct donations to trusted disaster relief organizations such as the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. Financial contributions are the fastest and most flexible method of donating as it allows these organizations to quickly address urgent or emerging needs. If you wish to donate supplies, first check to see what items have been identified as high need and where.
