Kentucky Faces Severe Flooding Crisis; Over 12 Lives Lost and Thousands Affected
Severe flooding in Kentucky has left at least 12 people dead, with more fatalities expected as search-and-rescue efforts continue. The devastating floods, caused by over 6 inches of rain in some areas, have led to more than 1,000 rescues across the state. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency and confirmed that President Donald Trump approved disaster relief funding.
Among the victims are a mother and her 7-year-old child, who were swept away in their car in Hart County. A 73-year-old man in Clay County also died after being caught in floodwaters while attempting to evacuate. In total, fatalities have been reported in multiple counties, including Hart, Pike, Clay, and Hardin.
The flooding has caused widespread damage, with nearly 40,000 residents without power, 9,800 service connections lacking water, and 26,000 under boil-water advisories. Mudslides have blocked roads, and entire communities, such as Beattyville, have been evacuated. Emergency teams are working to reach those still trapped, and shelters have been opened in Pike County and Jenny Wiley State Resort Park.
The National Weather Service warned that swollen streams and rivers will continue to pose risks even after the rain subsides. Gov. Beshear urged residents to stay off roadways to prevent further tragedies. The Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson closed its emergency department, transferring patients to other hospitals as the north fork of the Kentucky River is expected to crest nearly 14 feet above flood stage.
This flooding event is one of the most severe in Kentucky in at least a decade, with officials emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and support for affected communities.
Kentucky faces devastating flooding with 9 dead and more than a thousand rescued
A mother and her 7-year-old child were killed in Kentucky when the car they were in was swept away by floodwaters in Hart County near Interstate 65.
www.nbcnews.com
At least 12 dead in Kentucky from widespread flooding. What we know about the victims
At least one child was confirmed among the dead as crews continue working to reach people trapped by floodwaters.
www.yahoo.com
At least eight dead in Kentucky flooding with number expected to increase
Ninth person dies from harsh winter weather in Georgia as bone-chilling cold predicted for northern plains
www.theguardian.com
Historic flooding hits Kentucky: Death toll rises to 14 as recovery efforts continue
Officials are still in the search and rescue phase after heavy rain caused deadly widespread flooding across Kentucky.
www.wlwt.com
Many roads closed in Kentucky due to flooding | county-by-county list
Heavy rains are impacting many counties in the WHAS11 viewing area. Here is a list of current road closures.
www.whas11.com
Man found dead in Eastern Kentucky floodwaters after hours of rainfall
The Clay County coroner said the man had driven into floodwater covering a road and was swept away.
www.kentucky.com