An elderly woman is presumed dead after her vehicle was swept away in Perche Creek floodwaters near Columbia. Rescuers were able to save two individuals from the vehicle, including a bystander who attempted to help. Flash floods hit Mid-Missouri following heavy storms that dumped inches of rain overnight. Local residents, like Scott Mullins, have expressed concern over the increasing frequency and severity of flooding in the area.
Boone County officials closed off flooded roads, including Route EE, to prevent further accidents. Emergency responders, including the Boone County Sheriff’s Office and Columbia Police Department, were on the scene to assist with rescue efforts. The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the region, warning of possible additional flooding.
In Audrain County, a water rescue was ongoing, and two juveniles were rescued after their UTV was swept away by floodwaters. Additionally, two kayakers had to be rescued from an island in the Gasconade River. Officials urged residents to take flooding warnings seriously and not attempt to cross flooded roads.
The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the story develops. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by flash floods and the importance of heeding weather warnings and road closures during severe weather events.
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