Floods from Thunderstorms Impact Kentucky and Indiana
Flooding caused by thunderstorms that have delivered significant rainfall across Kentucky and Indiana has resulted in fatalities and ongoing concerns about further rain.
Four Fatalities Confirmed by Governor Beshear
Andy Beshear, the governor of Kentucky, confirmed that four people have died due to flash floods triggered by thunderstorms that brought up to 7 inches (18 cm) of rain to the state.
Beshear shared the information in a social media post, specifying that three of the deceased were from Madison County and one was from Jackson County. He added,
"Please join Britainy and me as we pray for their families during this difficult time,"
he said.
Weather Warnings and Rainfall Details
The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning on Saturday covering parts of Kentucky and Indiana.
By late Saturday, certain areas in southwestern Indiana had already experienced between 4 and 10 inches of rain, with additional rainfall possible, according to the weather service.
State of Emergency and Safety Measures
Governor Beshear declared a state of emergency on Saturday, noting in a statement that the heavy rainfall was expected to continue until 11 p.m. Eastern Time.
"This is a serious flooding event, where teams have already had to conduct multiple water rescues from vehicles and homes across the commonwealth,"
Beshear stated.
"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."
Precautionary Evacuations in Bullitt County
In northwestern Kentucky, near Louisville, emergency management officials in Bullitt County requested residents of a rural road to evacuate as a precaution following a landslide at a dam embankment.
Officials confirmed the dam was still holding and there was no indication of imminent failure.
The National Weather Service reported that the area had received approximately 3 inches of rain over the past two days.
Associated Press contributed reporting.
