<img src="http://www.joplinglobeonline.com/images/zope/new.gif" border=0> 05/11/08 1:45 p.m. Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt activating National Guard troops

May 11, 2008 03:46 pm

— Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt has activated state agencies and the Missouri National Guard to support recovery efforts following Saturday’s storms.
The state emergency operations plan is activated to allow state agencies to assist with the local emergency response.
At Blunt’s direction, the Missouri National Guard has about 20 people on duty providing security in Newtonia and Granby. Missouri National Guard support in the area will continue based on the needs determined by local and state officials.
Shelters have been established in Diamond, Neosho and Purdy, according to Blunt’s office. Missourians who need resource referrals or non-emergency help are urged to call 211. The 211 Service is now available for most areas of Missouri and helps citizens with disaster information and referrals. In areas where 211 is not operational, citizens may call (800) 427-4626.