WORLD

Missouri floods trigger mass camp airlifts, one missing

▪

Read, Watch or Listen

Severe flash flooding in southeast Missouri on Friday led to hundreds of rescues, including the airlift of more than 200 children and counselors from Camp Taum Sauk near Lesterville. Heavy rains washed out surrounding roads, prompting the Missouri National Guard to deploy eight Black Hawk helicopters to transport 202 campers and staff to a nearby elementary school for reunification with families. At the Bearcat Getaway campground on the Black River, about 85 miles south of St. Louis, roughly 20 people sought refuge on a roof before it collapsed. In Crawford County, one woman, Faith Gregory, remains missing after her home was swept from its foundation.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Friday Heavy rain triggers flash flooding
Friday Roads washed out near Camp Taum Sauk
Friday Eight Black Hawks airlift 202 campers
Friday Campers reunited at nearby elementary school
Friday Roof collapses at Bearcat Getaway campground
Friday Three people rescued from Black River trees
Saturday Authorities confirm one woman still missing
Saturday Family and friends continue searching Gregory

Why This Matters to You

This event underscores the importance of emergency preparedness, especially in flood-prone regions. It's a reminder to review your family's evacuation plan and ensure you have a stocked emergency kit. If you're sending your kids to camp, check the site's safety measures.

The Bottom Line

Flash floods can strike with little warning, turning a normal day into a life-threatening situation. While the quick response saved many, one woman remains missing. It's a sobering reminder of nature's power. Worth forwarding if you know someone in a flood-risk area.