Cole County first responders in Jefferson City, Missouri sprang into action on Monday night as severe storms wreaked havoc across the city. Heavy rains flooded roads, leading to a dramatic rescue operation by the Jefferson City Fire Department.
Assistant chief Jay Niemeyer shared with ABC 17 News that firefighters had to assist individuals trapped in three cars submerged in water on Edgewood Drive and Creek Trail Drive around 9:30 p.m. One of the rescued individuals was taken to the hospital by Cole County EMS for minor injuries. The fire department successfully helped occupants of two of the vehicles safely reach land, while the third car ended up in a ditch, with its passengers managing to make it to safety on their own.
The storm, which also brought hail and a tornado to parts of mid-Missouri, left a trail of destruction in its wake. Two inches of rain fell in Jefferson City during the storm, knocking out power for numerous customers in Cole County. Additionally, the city’s creeks and waterways were filled to capacity, leading to flooded roads in low-lying areas. The Jefferson City Fire Department even had to rescue a stranded boater from the Missouri River as the storm approached.
Niemeyer issued a cautionary warning to drivers, urging them to exercise caution and avoid driving through flooded areas. With the city’s waterways already at capacity, any additional rainfall could lead to further flooding problems. Niemeyer emphasized the importance of not taking risks by driving through water-covered roads.
As the community recovers from the aftermath of the storm, it serves as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during severe weather events.
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