Missouri Task Force 1 nears end of southeast Missouri flood response mission

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

BOONE COUNTY, Mo. (KBSI) — Missouri Task Force 1 is nearing the completion of its flood response mission in southeast Missouri after several days of search and rescue operations in Reynolds and Iron counties.

The urban search and rescue team, sponsored by the Boone County Fire Protection District, has spent three operational periods assisting communities impacted by historic flooding.

Since arriving Friday, crews have conducted systematic searches of flood-damaged homes, campers and vehicles while operating by boat and on foot. Teams worked from sunrise to sunset in extreme heat and humidity to check damaged structures and confirm the safety of residents who remained in affected areas.

According to Missouri Task Force 1, crews have completed primary searches of more than 100 damaged structures, more than 90 campers and more than 120 vehicles.

The district’s Disaster Situational Assessment and Reconnaissance team also supported the response by mapping more than 1,500 acres and collecting more than 6,000 assessment images using drones and geographic information system technology. Officials said the data helped incident commanders make operational decisions and deploy resources as conditions changed.

“We’re proud to have had the opportunity to assist our fellow Missourians during this historic flooding event,” Fire Chief Doug Westhoff said. “When communities call for help, that’s exactly what Missouri Task Force 1 was built to do.”

Missouri Task Force 1 is expected to conclude its mission and return to Boone County on Monday, pending final assignments from local officials and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency.