Nixon officially declares state of emergency

Gov. Nixon declares state of emergency because of public health,
agricultural, fire risk concerns from prolonged severe heat and drought

Executive order authorizes state agencies to assist local jurisdictions
with response, under State Emergency Operations Plan

JEFFERSON CITY - Gov. Jay Nixon today declared a state of emergency in
Missouri because of the impact that the prolonged severe heat and
drought are having on both agriculture and public health. Executive
Order 12-07, signed by the Governor this afternoon, activates the State
Emergency Operations Plan, which 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. In addition, we continue to see a high risk of fire from
tinderbox conditions, and we are monitoring how the drought is affecting
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 has confirmed 25
heat-related deaths in the state, including 20 in the St. Louis
metropolitan area. The department also has received hospital reports of
829 heat-related emergency department visits from May 1 through July 22.


On June 29, Gov. Nixon issued an executive order activating the Missouri
State Operations Center in response to the severe heat, dry conditions
and fire risks. Last Friday (July 20), he called on the State Soil and
Water Districts Commission to take emergency action allowing livestock
producers to conduct flash grazing, haying and watering on livestock
exclusion areas currently under contract.