Missouri DCI and Missouri SEMA Partner to Encourage Emergency Preparedness, Inc…

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo - Missourians experienced a significant number of severe weather events across the state in 2025, including tornadoes, severe storms and flash flooding that caused devastating damage and loss of lives. These catastrophic weather events in Missouri are projected to reach $2 billion in insured losses alone. In September, National Preparedness Month raises awareness about preparing for disasters and emergencies. The Missouri Department of Commerce & Insurance (DCI) and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) work to help consumers be prepared physically and financially to endure and recover from disasters.

"At SEMA, we're constantly learning, adjusting and adapting to whatever potential threat or hazard Missouri encounters," said SEMA Director Jim Remillard. "Preparedness is peace of mind when it matters most. Consider having serious conversations with your family members about what to do, where to go, and how to get ahold of each other when disaster strikes. You can use real scenarios as part of the discussion to help you plan for alternate ways of contacting your loved ones and packing emergency items ahead of time that can be stored separately and ready to use when the time comes."

In addition to making emergency preparations such as go-kits and evacuation plans, Missourians should also consider making financial preparations for their recovery following an event. This preparation should include insurance.

"When thinking about emergency preparedness, people focus a lot of attention on surviving a disaster," said DCI Director Angela Nelson. "And while this is certainly important, people neglect to plan for recovery after the event. You should plan to prepare your home to withstand disasters such as flooding, high winds, and hail, but also how to pay for the repairs necessary to make your home safe and livable again."

Understanding your insurance policy to protect investments in your home or personal property helps minimize losses in the aftermath of a disaster. Regularly reviewing your homeowners' or renters' policies will help consumers be prepared if they need to submit a claim. DCI has severe weather resources available at https://insurance.mo.gov/severe-weather

For any insurance questions, Missouri consumers can call DCI's Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800-726-7390 or visit https://insurance.mo.gov/consumers.

DCI is charged with protecting Missouri consumers through oversight of the insurance industry, banks, credit unions, utilities and various professional licensees operating in the state. For more information about the department, please visit our website at dci.mo.gov.