On Sunday, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear held a press conference where he provided weather updates as much of the Commonwealth battles flooding and snow due to heavy rains.
The governor announced President Donald Trump had approved his request for an emergency disaster declaration for the state.
This means federal funding will be available for areas impacted by flooding and other emergencies throughout the state.
Beshear preemptively declared a state of emergency on Friday.
In just over 24 hours into the natural disaster response, Beshear said crews have performed over 1,000 rescues.
He said at least eight people, one them a child, have died across the Commonwealth.
Many of them were related to flood waters or motor vehicle accidents.
Beshear said he expects more fatalities as the harsh weather continues.
Also, more snow is coming on Tuesday and Wednesday in some parts of Kentucky.
Beshear said the difficulty with the current weather event is that it is impacting all 120 Kentucky counties.
Portions of more than 300 state roads are blocked due to flooding, mudslides or damage.
Once again, officials urge people to stay off the roads if at all possible.
In a press release Team Kentucky also provided these tips and resources for the on-going severe weather:
When to Call 911:
If you have an emergency or life-threatening situation, dial 911 for immediate available assistance.
Rapid Needs Assessment:
If you have immediate needs, but that are not life-threatening, please complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form or call 502-607-6665. These needs include: power is out or inconsistent; no heat or very little heat; individuals with medical needs or disabilities; no food or unable to cook; no or very little drinking water; unable to leave house due to weather and no transportation; phone issues; unable to leave vehicle; checking on a loved one; and more.
Emergency Prescription Refills:
Governor Beshear signed an executive order allowing Kentucky pharmacists to dispense emergency 30-day refills for any non-controlled medication.
FEMA On-Site:
FEMA has deployed and arrived on Sunday to support. FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer is Jeremy Slinker, who previously served as Director of Kentucky Emergency Management and led the commonwealth through the Western Kentucky tornadoes of 2021 and the Eastern Kentucky floods of 2022.
Shelter Areas:
Kentucky State Parks have opened to receive displaced Kentuckians. Beshear said 142 people are currently being housed at state parks. Jenny Wiley State Park is currently full with 86 adults, 56 children and around 20 pets.
Buckhorn State Park could not be opened due to road conditions. Beshear said he hopes to have the park open in a few days.
Safety Tips:
Watch your step. Floodwaters often hide sharp and dangerous debris, like broken glass and metal. Floodwater can also be contaminated with oil, gasoline or sewage.
Wear the appropriate protective clothing and gear such as boots, gloves and safety glasses when moving debris.
Stay away from electrical utility equipment after a storm, or if it is wet, to prevent being electrocuted. Report any utility issues to your local utility company.
Flooded homes are hazards. Get a professional to check for loose wires, mold and hidden damage before re-entering.
Use generators or other gas-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.
Never drive into a road covered with flowing water. One foot of flowing water can sweep a car off the road; two feet will carry away an SUV or pickup. Even six inches of water can knock you off your feet. Never walk or drive through swift water. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
Respect barricades and posted signage. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around. You are not only putting your own life at risk, but also the lives of first responders.
If you encounter a dark traffic signal, treat it as a four-way stop.
Source: WHAS11
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