Governor declares state of emergency due to widespread flooding across Kentucky
Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency due to widespread flooding on Saturday with more rain expected Saturday night.
In social media posts, Beshear said at least one person had died in the floods and he expected more casualties. He asked that motorists stay off roadways after dark because of dangerous road conditions.
Five counties have declared a local state of emergency: Bullitt, Madison, Meade, Mercer and Spencer.
“This is a serious flooding event, where teams have already had to conduct multiple water rescues from vehicles and homes across the commonwealth,” Beshear said in a release. “As more heavy rain continues through late tonight, we need folks to remain alert and to avoid driving, especially after dark when there is limited visibility. We’ve sadly already received reports of fatalities that we are working to confirm, and we need everyone to stay alert and do what’s needed to keep each other safe.”
The Lexington Herald-Leader reported three deaths in Madison County and one in Jackson County.
Beshear said swift water rescue teams were continuing to respond to emergency requests in local communities, including water rescues from vehicles and homes and a community-wide evacuation in Bullitt County.
Due to an increase in calls, Beshear encouraged Kentuckians to keep 911 lines open for emergency situations only. If you need help or support for a non-life-threatening situation, please use the State Warning Point line at 1-800-255-2587. For up-to-date roadway conditions, visit GoKy.Ky.gov.
Another seven inches of rain was expected Saturday night.