Gov Blunt Plans to Seek Federal Disaster Declaration For Flooding

 (Jefferson City, MO)  --  Missouri Governor Matt Blunt expects to ask President Bush for a major disaster declaration when the Missouri River flood waters finally recede.

   Blunt toured areas in mid-Missouri affected by flooding over the weekend.

   Last week, the governor declared a state of emergency and called for federal and state teams to begin assessing flood damage.

   His anticipated request for a disaster declaration comes amid word that the flooding in the St. Louis area isn't expected to be as serious as first predicted.

   The Missouri River in St. Charles is expected to crest tomorrow at four-and-a-half-feet above flood stage.

   Meanwhile, the Mississippi River in St. Louis has already crested below flood stage.

   (Copyright 2007 by Newsroom Solutions/Regional News Service)