(KLZA)-- Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed an Executive Order Wednesday, extending the current State of Emergency declaration in preparation for potential flooding along the Missouri River over the coming days.

Governor Parson first declared a State of Emergency on May 2, 2024, through Executive Order 24-06 in response to severe weather.

Extending the State of Emergency ensures the state can directly assist local jurisdictions, allowing increased flexibility and capacity to support response and recovery efforts. A State of Emergency is also the first step required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to seek a major disaster declaration if statewide damages meet federal thresholds for Missouri.

Parson encouraged Missourians to follow their local forecasts and have preparations in place to protect themselves and their loved ones.