Missouri Prepares to Assist
with Hurricane Rita Relief Efforts
JEFFERSON CITY, September 22, 2005-Under Gov. Matt Blunt’s
direction, Missouri has begun anticipating both federal and state
requests to assist with Hurricane Rita.
“Missouri is prepared to donate time, resources
and personnel to the Lone Star state, just as Missouri rapidly responded
to the people of the Gulf Coast,” Blunt said. “As these
devastating natural disasters continue to blast our southern states,
Missouri remains committed to providing relief efforts.”
The Department of Public Safety has prepared two executive
orders for the governor’s signature. One allows state departments
and personnel to assist in Hurricane Rita relief efforts, while the
other grants authority for the National Guard to respond.
FEMA has reached out to Missouri surveying how many
evacuees the state could potentially handle. After initial numbers
were given in early efforts for Hurricane Katrina, Missouri could
potentially accommodate at least 3,100 evacuees. The state will continue
its efforts to coordinate and identify housing solutions.
SEMA will activate the State Emergency Operations Center
for 24 hour coverage beginning at noon Friday, Sept. 23. SEMA’s
homepage will also feature Hurricane Rita information http://sema.dps.mo.gov.
The National Guard’s watch office will continue 24 hour operation
which has been maintained since Hurricane Katrina.
The Missouri Donations Call Center (800) 841-8891 will
also field donations call for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita response.
Initial Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) requests are
asking for Missouri National Guard assets at this time.