U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer is encouraging 9^th District residents and all Missourians living along the Missouri River to recognize the importance of preparing a flood plan for their families as river communities are expected to be flooded again this year due to massive water releases into the Missouri River Basin.   

“I want to encourage Missourians living along the Missouri River to develop a plan for their family in the event they need to leave their home because of the rising Missouri River,” Luetkemeyer said. “I want to ensure all families are adequately prepared for what could be coming their way, and that they have developed a plan before flood waters are expected to reach Missouri.”

With 142 miles of the Missouri River running through the 9^th District, Luetkemeyer is focused on serving as an advocate for river communities in Congress. In preparation for any potential flooding event, families are encouraged to visit the congressman’s website at / and scroll down to the flood resources section. The site includes tips on how to best prepare for a flood, cope during a flood, and recover after a flood, among other valuable information.

Luetkemeyer’s office is hearing between a dozen and 50 levees in Missouri could be breached depending on the severity of the flooding along the river and the strength of the levees.

Luetkemeyer reminds folks living near the Missouri River of the following important steps as they prepare for potential record flooding. Below are a few things to keep in mind when preparing and developing a flood plan:

·         Copy and store in a waterproof bag or container important documents such as medical records, contracts, deeds, leases, banking records, insurance records, social security cards, and birth certificates.

·         After a flood remember to wear protective shoes, long pants, long sleeve shirts and gloves to protect from sharp edges and other hazards.

·         Before entering a flooded structure, check the outside of the structure for damage such as cracks in the foundation or broken utilities that could make it too dangerous to enter.

·         Enter a flooded structure with caution. Look for sagging in the ceiling that may indicate trapped water. Check for loose flooring.

·         Throw out all food, beverages and medicine exposed to flood water and mud, including canned goods, capped bottles and sealed containers.

·         Take pictures of the damage to the house and its contents for insurance claims.

Luetkemeyer is encouraging families living along the Missouri River to be safe as they prepare for potential flooding, and to call his Washington, D.C. office at 202-225-2956, his Columbia office at 573-443-1041, his Hannibal office at 573-231-1012 or his Washington, MO office at 636-239-2276 with their questions and concerns.

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