Tweet

Rating: 1.0 (1 vote)

• • 

JEFFERSON CITY — Gov. Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency Monday in Missouri due to the impact that the prolonged severe heat and drought are having on both agriculture and public health.

According to press release from Gov. Nixon's Press Secretary, he signed Executive Order 12-07 which activates the State Emergency Operations Plan. This authorizes state agencies to assist local jurisdictions with their emergency response.

"The high temperatures and dry conditions across the state are taking their toll on Missourians," Gov. Nixon said. "Our farmers are suffering tremendous losses in crops and livestock, and we're seeing more heat-related deaths and emergency room visits, particularly among seniors."

Gov. Nixon stated that officials are monitoring the drought and its affect on public water supplies and distribution.

"We're going to continue to work with public health officials, public safety officials and agricultural leaders to alleviate the impact of the heat and drought, but the long-range forecast shows our preparation and response will likely be needed for the foreseeable future," Gov. Nixon said.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services confirmed 25 heat-related deaths in the state. The department also received hospital reports of 829 heat-related emergency department visits from May 1 through July 22.