The death toll is at least eight in eastern Kentucky in what Gov. Andy Beshear called “one of the worst, most devastating flooding events in Kentucky’s history.”
Rain has pounded eastern Kentucky, dropping more than six inches in a 24-hour period and several more inches over the last few days, while producing flash flood conditions, mudslides and power outages that have overwhelmed much of the eastern part of the commonwealth.
Officials said two people have died in Perry County, including an 81-year-old woman, with one death each in Knott and Clay counties. Officials said they are not certain what counties the other four fatalities resided in.
There remain many people unaccounted for; spurring Beshear to say that he expects the death toll to reach double digits.
“Unfortunately, I expect double digit deaths in this flooding, that’s something that we rarely see,” the governor said.
Additionally, hundreds of homes and businesses have suffered catastrophic damage. Beshear, who declared a state of emergency and activated the Kentucky National Guard, said earlier on Thursday that 30 people have been airlifted out of flooded communities.
Beshear says there are roughly 23,000 customers without power, with that number expected to increase. Water service has also been disrupted in many areas.
In response to the devastation, Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray issued an order to help speed urgently needed fuel, supplies and restoration of power to flood-stricken counties.
Gray’s order applies to commercial vehicles actively engaged in relief efforts. It exempts drivers from limits on hours of driving and having to stop at weight stations if they are delivering fuel and other needed supplies or engaged in debris removal and restoration of power. It also exempts the vehicles from fees for overweight/over-dimensional permits.
“Gov. Beshear wants to ensure there’s no delay in getting relief to the people who are suffering in eastern Kentucky,” Gray said.
Additionally, Attorney General Daniel Cameron activated a price gouging hotline and online reporting portal. Suspected price gouging can be reported to the Attorney General’s Office by calling 502-696-5485 or by visiting ag.ky.gov/pricegouging.
“Our hearts are with our fellow Kentuckians who are affected by flooding in Southeastern Kentucky, and we will work together to ensure that price gouging does not prevent them from getting the supplies and essential items that are needed during this incredibly difficult time,” Cameron said.
(Photo: Flooding in Hindman in Knott County, courtesy of WYMT.com)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
