JEFFERSON CITY, MO. -- Gov. Jay Nixon signed an executive order Wednesday morning declaring a state of emergency in Missouri in response to severe storms that began late Tuesday night and continued into the early morning hours on Wednesday.

The weather system involved tornadoes and high winds and has caused the loss of life, numerous injuries and significant damage to communities across Missouri. Locations reporting damage include Branson, Buffalo, Cassville, Lebanon and Oak Ridge.

Initial reports indicate that the storms have resulted in at least three deaths, numerous injuries and significant, widespread damage in several communities in southwest and southeast Missouri. There was significant damage to business and tourist locations in Branson, including hotels and theaters.  

"My emergency management team and I have been tracking these storms through the night and coordinating with local officials to ensure the safety of affected Missourians and to make sure that local responders have the resources and support they need,” Gov. Nixon said. "As we did throughout 2011’s numerous emergencies, the state of Missouri will assist at every stage of this response to keep Missouri families safe and help communities recover and rebuild."

Gov. Nixon plans Wednesday afternoon to visit areas impacted by the storm to observe damage and meet with local officials, responders and affected residents.

We have several reports of property damage in and around the Kirksville area as well.