LEXINGTON, Ky. — Mayor Linda Gorton said in a statement that the city is urging residents to report damage from Monday's severe flash flooding and document losses for insurance purposes, according to a release from the City of Lexington Mayor's Office.

Multiple Lexington businesses reported more than a foot of floodwater rushed down streets following the deluge. The National Weather Service reported that Lexington-Fayette County received 2.5 to 3 inches of rain in less than an hour and a half Monday morning, causing widespread flooding across the city.

The flooding prompted emergency response operations, with Lexington Fire evacuating five people from an apartment complex near UK Hospital and conducting multiple water rescues in the flooded areas. The city said in the release that residents with property damage should report damage to 3-1-1 so city crews can evaluate the situation.

Residents should also document losses with photographs before cleanup begins, as photos can support insurance claims, the city announced. The city emphasized that water entering through basement walls, windows, sump pumps, gutters, or private service lines is typically a private property issue rather than a city-maintained infrastructure problem. However, the city's contractor can assist with cleanup if flooding results from sanitary sewers.

Street flooding should also be reported to 3-1-1, which allows city crews to inspect and address post-flooding damage including clogged storm drains, debris, and other issues that could contribute to future flooding, officials said in the release.

Gorton reminded residents that safety is the top priority during severe weather. "Motorists should never drive through a flooded roadway," she said in the statement. In the event of a life-threatening emergency, residents should call 9-1-1.