CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) – Governor Mike Kehoe signed an executive order on Friday, March 14 declaring a state of emergency in Missouri ahead of severe weather.

Executive Order 25-19 activates the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which enables state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions to assist.

We issued a First Alert Action Day for today through the overnight hours due to the threat of severe weather including tornadoes.

“The National Weather Service has warned that this fast-approaching storm is likely to bring severe weather across the state, including high winds and an increased risk of tornadoes,” Governor Kehoe said in a news release. “I urge all Missourians to stay alert, monitor weather forecasts, and follow official warnings.”

“While I hope this declaration proves unnecessary, ensuring our emergency management teams are fully prepared is my top priority,” he added. “The state’s emergency operations center will be activated at 1 p.m. today to support coordination efforts.”

Missourians are strongly encouraged to postpone outdoor activities and travel to avoid being on the road when storms hit.

The executive order will expire on April 14, 2025.

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