Summary (tl;dr)

Historic flash flooding in southeastern Missouri, fueled by torrential rainfall, has prompted a state of emergency and numerous emergency rescues, including the helicopter evacuation of over 200 children and staff from Camp Taum Sauk.

Essential Background

Missouri has been experiencing intense storms, with some areas receiving between 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimeters) of rain in less than 24 hours. This severe weather led to saturated soils and rapidly rising water levels in rivers and streams, setting the stage for widespread flash flooding across central, south-central, and southeastern regions of the state. Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency on July 10, 2026, activating the state's emergency operations plan to coordinate rescue efforts.

The Full Story

On Friday, July 10, 2026, flash flooding transformed rivers like the Black River into raging torrents, causing catastrophic conditions in rural southeastern Missouri, particularly in the Ozark Mountains. More than 200 children and staff members at Camp Taum Sauk near Lesterville were trapped after roads were washed away and were subsequently airlifted to safety by the Army National Guard using Black Hawk helicopters. Additionally, over 90 water rescues were conducted for residents, motorists, and campers caught in the rapidly rising floodwaters, including approximately 20 people rescued from Bearcat Getaway Campground after a building they were on collapsed into the floodwaters. Search efforts are also underway for at least one person who remains missing.

Why It Matters

The severe flash flooding has created dangerous conditions for residents and outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those camping or recreating near rivers and streams, leading to significant rescue operations and a state of emergency. The ongoing threat of additional heavy rainfall over already saturated ground means the risk of further flash flooding remains high, impacting travel and daily life. The events highlight the immediate dangers of severe weather and the critical role of emergency services in protecting vulnerable populations, especially in popular recreational areas.

Geographic Location

• Lesterville, Reynolds County, Missouri, United States (over 200 campers and staff airlifted from Camp Taum Sauk due to washed-out roads)
• Reynolds County, Missouri, United States (numerous emergency rescues, campers stranded in trees, and a building collapse at Bearcat Getaway Campground)
• Iron County, Missouri, United States (flash flood emergency issued, multiple campgrounds affected)
• Black River, Reynolds County, Missouri, United States (campers clung to collapsing structures and trees as floodwaters surged, three people rescued from trees)
• Crawford County, Missouri, United States (one person missing after a house was swept from its foundation)