Blunt talks flood preparedness with Mo. officials

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri Sen. Roy Blunt and officials in the Jefferson City area are discussing flood preparations around the capital city as the rising Missouri River threatens more of the state.

Blunt spoke Friday at a boat landing just across the river from the state Capitol building. Officials outlined plans for such problems as finding places for people who work in Jefferson City to stay if flood waters close the city off.

On Saturday, Blunt plans visits to northwestern river communities, including Rock Port and St. Joseph. Many are already swamped or expecting to be soon.

Residents in several northwestern towns were taking steps to protect their belongings Friday after a levee failed Thursday night in Atchison County. High water prompted officials to close Lewis and Clark State Park near the river.

Read additional details about Sen. Blunt's Jefferson City visit in our newspaper and e-Edition for Saturday, June 25, 2011.