Severe Flooding Hits Kentucky, Prompting Evacuations and Searches

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Rising river levels are forcing evacuations and ongoing water rescues across Kentucky as the state faces potential record rainfall. As severe storms continue to batter the Central and Southern U.S., local authorities are urging residents to move to higher ground.

The National Weather Service had issued warnings earlier in the week regarding the stagnant weather pattern that has resulted in consistent storming across the region. Since Wednesday, at least 17 fatalities have been reported as severe storms swept from Texas to Ohio.

Amid the emergency, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency on Saturday, stressing the importance of taking the situation seriously. “We need everyone statewide to take this seriously,” he stated in a press briefing.

Residents in low-lying parts of Frankfort are on high alert as the Kentucky River is projected to crest at a record high of 49.5 feet on Monday—nearly at the protective flood walls designed to withstand 51 feet.

The city government noted in a recent release, “At this level, these areas of uncertainty MAY flood. Roadways may be water-covered and inaccessible, and basements may experience flooding.”

Franklin County Judge Executive Michael Mueller reported that Kentucky State Police and the National Guard are assisting with evacuations, particularly in impacted neighborhoods like Bellepoint. Many residents in south Frankfort are being encouraged to leave their homes.

A mandatory evacuation order has also been issued for Falmouth, located approximately 50 miles northeast of Frankfort. Pendleton County public information officer Rob Braun emphasized, “If you do NOT live in Falmouth, you will not be allowed in town.”

As the Ohio River rose more than five feet in just 24 hours, Mayor Craig Greenberg of Louisville warned of further expected rises over the next few days. Meanwhile, rapid flooding in the Colesburg area, located 30 miles south of Louisville, has led to numerous rescues.

In Bowling Green, officials declared a state of emergency and advised residents to avoid flooded areas. Law enforcement will be monitoring unauthorized vehicular access to waterlogged zones.

As Kentucky grapples with the aftermath of severe storm incidents, other states have also recorded loss. Arkansas experienced a tragic fatality when a child was found deceased in a storm-affected home. In Franklin County, police confirmed a tragic incident where a person was swept away by floodwaters while walking to a bus stop.

Statistically, there were 87 reports of severe weather in the region, including four tornadoes, 78 wind incidents, and five hail reports. As rain continues, millions of people remain under flood watches extending throughout the Southeast and Central United States.

According to the National Weather Service, about 22 million individuals are under the risk of severe storms, with damaging winds, large hail, and the potential for tornado activity throughout the day. Tornado watches are in effect for parts of southern and eastern Alabama, extending toward northern Florida and western Georgia.

As storm systems continue to develop, damage report teams have identified a potential 31 tornadoes across eight states since the severe weather began on Wednesday. Among these were three notable EF3 tornadoes confirmed in Missouri, Tennessee, and Arkansas.

Currently, power outages are prevalent, affecting over 56,200 customers in Central U.S. areas, with Arkansas as the hardest-hit state. The aftermath of heavy rains has left parts of Tennessee, including Nashville, under persistent flash flood warnings.

As emergency crews continue to respond to the ongoing crisis, residents are urged to stay informed and follow official guidance regarding safety and evacuations.