Missouri waterways saw a tragic surge in fatalities last month, marking a record-breaking August for the Missouri State Water Patrol. Officers responded to 43 incidents, including 11 deaths and 13 serious injuries—a number that nearly matches the total water-related fatalities for all of 2024.

Of those August fatalities, four were drowning’s, with Mid-Missouri alone accounting for four drowning deaths in just one month. Last year, Missouri recorded 14 water-related deaths statewide, most occurring between noon and 8 p.m., and often on weekends.

Officials are urging boaters and swimmers to take safety seriously: wear a life jacket, avoid alcohol, and stay alert while enjoying Missouri’s lakes and rivers.