As the Meramec River crests in Fenton, Missouri, residents and local businesses grapple with rising anxiety amidst the threat of flooding. Although the river’s peak suggests a potential end to the immediate crisis, the aftermath remains a source of concern.
On Tuesday morning, emergency responders performed a water rescue for a woman stranded in her SUV as the floodwaters surged near the WorldWide Technology Soccer Park. Thankfully, she was unharmed, but her vehicle was left submerged as the river continued to rise.
Local businesses are also feeling the impact. At the Riverside Golf Club, over half of the parking area is underwater, and parts of the golf course have begun to flood. Owner Walter Wolfner constructed a berm around the property, which has so far been effective in keeping the river at bay. Wolfner expressed cautious optimism, stating, “That has actually made a big improvement.”
Katie Beene, a nearby homeowner, is all too familiar with the dangers of rising water. Her house is often the first to be affected during floods. Reflecting on past experiences, she shared, “We were very scared in November. This time, we’re a little more hopeful it won’t get as close, but my husband has ordered many flood supplies on Amazon to hopefully protect us.”
Beene and her husband moved into their home after it was severely damaged in the 2012 floods. Now, FEMA frequently reminds them of their property’s history, requiring them to complete paperwork for flood insurance every six months. “Every six months, we have to sign paperwork that makes us relive what the previous owners went through,” she explained.
As the river is expected to crest overnight, Beene is closely monitoring the situation. “We’ll be watching all night how fast it’s rising and hopefully not having to go down and move all of our stuff out of our basement,” she said. “Fingers crossed we’re not doing any middle-of-the-night moves out of the basement.”
The psychological toll of such natural disasters can be significant. Residents often experience heightened anxiety levels as they confront the uncertainties of flooding. The constant threat of water damage, coupled with the emotional weight of previous flood experiences, can strain mental well-being.
Experts emphasize the importance of community support during these crises. Engaging with neighbors, sharing resources, and communicating about preparedness can foster resilience. Local mental health resources can also provide support to those feeling overwhelmed by the situation.
As Fenton faces the immediate challenges of flooding, its residents are reminded of the importance of mental health in the face of adversity. The community’s ability to support one another will play a critical role in navigating the emotional impacts of this natural disaster.
