Eight Dead in Kentucky Flooding

Heavy storms and widespread flooding have led to at least eight deaths across Kentucky, with emergency crews conducting more than 1,000 rescues as search and recovery efforts continue, Governor Andy Beshear announced Sunday.

Rising Water, Rising Risks

Hart County received 4.33 inches of rain on Saturday, according to Kentucky Mesonet, causing Bacon Creek to overflow its banks. Flash flooding remains a major concern, even as waters begin to recede. Rising river levels in the coming days could result in additional flooding, prompting the governor to urge residents to stay off the roads.

In a press conference Sunday afternoon, Beshear confirmed that eight people have died due to the severe weather, most from flood-related incidents or attempts to drive through high water. He warned that the death toll could climb.

“We hope it doesn’t grow quickly or grow much larger,” Beshear said. “One way to help us minimize fatalities is to stay off the roads. Give the water time to recede. We’ll likely discover more families in distress—we don’t want yours to be one of them.”

Tragic Losses Across the State

Among the reported fatalities is a 35-year-old woman and her 7-year-old daughter in Hart County. According to WBKO in Bowling Green, the two were swept away in their vehicle Saturday night near Bacon Creek in Bonnieville.

Other weather-related deaths include:

• Two adult men who died in motor vehicle accidents—one in Hart County and another in Nelson County.

• Two adult males in Pike County and an adult female in Washington County, all of whom were swept away by floodwaters.

• Donald Keith Nicholson, 73, of Clay County, who was carried away after leaving his stalled vehicle, according to WYMT.

  
  

Federal Aid and Disaster Relief Efforts

President Donald Trump has approved Kentucky’s request for an emergency disaster declaration, making federal assistance available in all 120 counties. Beshear said the state is likely to receive aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help individuals and repair damaged infrastructure.

On social media, Beshear confirmed he had spoken directly with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and the acting director of FEMA regarding the ongoing crisis. He advised residents to document flood damage before making repairs to assist in FEMA assessments.

In response to the devastation, Beshear also launched the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund, which will provide assistance to affected residents. Donations are tax-deductible.

Widespread Damage and Utility Disruptions

The storm’s impact extends across the state, with damage reported to more than 300 roads. Power outages have left tens of thousands without electricity, particularly in Eastern Kentucky. Drinking water access has also been disrupted, affecting approximately 9,800 households. Nearly two dozen wastewater treatment plants are either inoperable or functioning at reduced capacity, with one plant submerged.

Jim Gray, Kentucky’s Transportation Secretary, warned that freezing temperatures could create additional hazards as floodwaters recede. He noted that roads in Eastern Kentucky could develop ice and that saturated ground conditions increase the risk of rockslides. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reported over 400 blocked roads as of Sunday afternoon.

Displacement and Shelter Efforts

Kentucky State Parks are currently sheltering 142 displaced residents, with efforts underway to open additional facilities. Jenny Wiley State Park in Floyd County has already reached full capacity.

Beshear acknowledged that while some Eastern Kentucky counties have been spared the catastrophic flooding seen in 2022, others are experiencing worse conditions than in past disasters.

“Pike County has been hit really hard,” Beshear said. “We have significant resources in place to help, but local emergency teams have been doing an outstanding job. Hundreds of rescues have taken place in Pike County alone.”

More Severe Weather Ahead

With additional rain and snow expected this week, further travel disruptions are anticipated. Western Kentucky could see 6 to 8 inches of snow by Tuesday and Wednesday, adding to the region’s weather challenges. “We know this is going to be a wild weather week,” Beshear warned.

Safety Precautions and Emergency Contacts

Kentuckians facing non-life-threatening emergencies, such as power outages and utility disruptions, are urged to avoid calling 911 to keep emergency lines clear for life-threatening situations. Instead, they can report issues by calling 502-607-6665 or by visiting the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management’s website.

As rescue and recovery efforts continue, officials stress the importance of heeding weather warnings, avoiding floodwaters, and prioritizing safety to prevent further tragedy.