Monday, March 13, 2006
Contact: Spence Jackson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Issues Two Executive Orders in Response to Deadly Weekend Tornadoes
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt issued two executive orders this morning declaring a state of emergency throughout Missouri and authorizing the adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard to assist in rescue and recovery efforts in response to deadly weekend tornadoes that swept across the state.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of life our state experienced over the weekend, and my thoughts and prayers are with families who lost loved ones, their homes and possessions to these violent storms,” Blunt said. “These executive orders will make Missouri eligible for federal assistance and enable the Missouri National Guard to assist wherever they are needed. I want all Missourians to know that their state government will do everything it can to get through these tragedies.”
Blunt activated the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) over the weekend to assist local law enforcement and first responders who tracked the storms and helped Missourians in need. At least eight deaths have been confirmed, and the state has received numerous reports of injuries and damage to homes and property throughout the state. Blunt will tour hard hit Christian County this afternoon. At Blunt’s request, Lt. Governor Peter Kinder toured Perry County this morning.
Blunt praised Missouri volunteer organizations like the Red Cross, Salvation Army and others who quickly responded to the storms and provided shelter and assistance to impacted families. Blunt is in constant communication with SEMA and the Missouri Department of Public Safety as reports on the storms’ damage come in.
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