Search KOMU Archives
 
 
Search KOMU Archives
blank botright
State Security Battles Weather
blank
KOMU Story Toolbox
blank
blank
blank
blank
blank
blank
blank
blank
blank

JEFFERSON CITY - Since its creation in 2001, Missouri's Office of Homeland Security and the State Emergency Management Agency has developed plans for almost every type of attack.

But the greatest threat might surprise you. Homeland Security officials met with House members Wednesday to update them on how prepared the state is for a disaster.

Officials say the biggest threat to state security might be mother nature. With 12 disasters declared by the President hitting the state in the last two and a half years, many officials are trying to prepare for anything the weather has to offer.

"We have been tested for real time and time again, almost every department in the state government so we've got it down to a science. Now I think we will respond as well as can be done," director of public safety Mark James said.

In a presentation Wednesday, officials emphasized the need for inter-state cooperation in case of emergencies. They highlighted several online tools that allow city and county officials to connect with state agencies. The department conducts regular training exercises for accidents like earthquakes or nuclear disasters, but officials say real life response provides the best lesson.

The State Emergency Management Agency is still cleaning up 10 of the last 12 natural disasters.

Reported by: Kate Springer
Edited by: Kathryn Lucchesi
Edited by: Joe Chambers
Edited by: Lauren Reid

blank
KOMU VIDEO ON DEMAND
Download this Story Video

 

blank