Congressman Jason Smith Surveys Devastating Flood Damage in Reynolds County, Pledges Federal Support

Reynolds Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Congressman Jason Smith toured flood-ravaged areas of Reynolds County on Monday, seeing firsthand the destruction caused by the historic flooding that struck the region on July 9 and 10, 2026.

The storms dropped as much as 12 inches of rain in a three-hour period, triggering catastrophic flooding that damaged homes, farms, businesses, churches, and public facilities throughout the county.

During his visit, Smith stopped at Valley Springs Youth Ranch and Black River Baptist Church, two locations that suffered extensive losses during the flooding.

Valley Springs Youth Ranch estimates the flood caused approximately $3 million in damage after rising water poured through building windows. The ranch also lost nearly 40 years' worth of equipment used to maintain the property and complete repairs. Because the area is not considered a designated flood zone, many families and organizations, including the ranch, had little or no flood insurance coverage.

Black River Baptist Church also experienced devastating damage after floodwaters destroyed its sanctuary. The church operates a food ministry that provides assistance to as many as 120 families, making the loss especially significant for the surrounding community.

Local agriculture was also heavily impacted. One Reynolds County farmer reported losing 90 bales of hay, while three tractors sustained severe flood damage. A nearby Missouri Department of Transportation maintenance building was also completely flooded.

Following the tour, Congressman Smith said the devastation was difficult to witness.

"What I saw today in Reynolds County was heartbreaking," Smith said. "Families have lost their homes, farmers have lost equipment and livelihoods they spent decades building, and a church that feeds well over a hundred people through its food drives had its sanctuary destroyed. The scale of what this community is facing is enormous, and I'm grateful for every first responder, volunteer, neighbor, and local leader who has stepped up to help during this difficult time. My office will continue working to connect these families and organizations with every state and federal resource available as they rebuild."

Recovery efforts continue across Reynolds County as residents, volunteers, and local officials work to rebuild following one of the most destructive flooding events the region has experienced in recent years.