‘Once-in-a-Millennium’ Floods Slam Missouri—Over 500 Rescued, One Dead

Missouri got hit with historic, record-shattering rainfall this week, dumping more than a foot of water in some spots—what weather experts are calling a “once-in-a-millennium” event. As of July 12, rescue teams have pulled over 500 people from floodwaters, but at least one person has died and several are still unaccounted for.

The deluge started the night of July 10, slamming southeastern Missouri counties—Crawford, Iron, Madison, Reynolds, and Wayne—with 6 to 12 inches of rain in under 24 hours. The National Weather Service issued its highest-level flash flood emergency for more than 4,000 people in parts of Reynolds and Iron Counties.

The Black River swelled to a record 28.7 feet, washing out roads and bridges and swallowing homes and campgrounds.

One of the most dramatic rescues happened at Camp Taum Sauk in Lesterville, where floodwaters cut off the only road in. More than 200 kids and counselors were trapped. The Missouri National Guard flew in eight Black Hawk helicopters to airlift 202 campers and staff to safety. The camp later posted a huge thank-you: “We’re beyond grateful for the help that kept our camp community safe.”

At the Bearcat Getaway campground in Reynolds County, about 20 people climbed onto a rooftop to escape rising water—but the building collapsed, sending them all into the rushing current. Rescue crews scrambled to pull them out. The sheriff’s office said 17 people were initially reported missing, but all were found safe hours later. Another group of 10 was rescued from the roof of the Black River Lodge. Overall, Reynolds County deputies said they conducted about 90 water rescues just on July 11. Statewide, more than 351 rescue operations were carried out by late that night.

Tragically, a 23‑year‑old woman from Crawford County, Faith Gregory, was swept away. Around 3:30 a.m. on July 11, floodwaters tore her house off its foundation in Davisville. She and her boyfriend managed to get into a kayak—he survived, but she and their pet were pulled under. Rescue crews searched all day, and by July 12, her body was recovered.

Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency on the afternoon of July 11 and activated the State Emergency Operations Plan. He said, “The last 24 hours brought dangerous flash flooding across multiple parts of Missouri, leading to numerous swift-water rescues. Activating this plan lets our teams coordinate fast and support local efforts.” He also warned, “The threat isn’t over—more heavy rain is forecast this weekend. If you’re camping, floating, or near creeks and rivers, get to higher ground and stay weather‑aware.”

The National Weather Service says the storm system is pushing south, but more thunderstorms could still trigger additional flooding, especially where 6 to 12 inches have already fallen. The Black River continues to rise and is expected to crest above 28 feet near Annapolis—another record.