Missouri emergency officials run tabletop exercise ahead of 2026 World Cup in Kansas City

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), along with state and local partners, conducted a tabletop exercise Tuesday to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup events in Kansas City.

Participants included the Kansas City Office of Emergency Management and other partner agencies. The exercise featured a series of simulated scenarios, including severe weather, protests, traffic disruptions, public health issues, power outages and a cyberattack.

SEMA officials said advanced planning, training and exercises are essential for coordinating large-scale event response efforts, as well as preparing for natural disasters.

“Strong coordination and communication are essential to effectively responding to any event,” the agency said in a statement, thanking all participating partners.