Deadly historic flooding moves through Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Kentucky is preparing for more winter weather this week as emergency crews continue search and rescue operations following deadly, historic flooding over the weekend.

According to Governor Andy Beshear, at least nine weather-related deaths have been confirmed, including multiple fatalities in Pike County, a woman and child in Hart County, and additional deaths in Washington and Nelson counties.

Emergency responders have conducted more than 1,000 rescues, and the Kentucky National Guard remains actively involved in ongoing recovery efforts. Meanwhile, thousands of residents remain without power and running water across the state.

Emergency shelters have been set up in Breathitt, Harlan, Knott, Lawrence, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Magoffin, and Wolfe counties to assist those displaced by the flooding.

Governor Beshear is urging Kentuckians to remain weather-aware, as another round of severe winter weather is expected while flood recovery efforts continue.

“We’re going to get hit with more snow again while we’re still dealing with this flood situation. It’s going to be significant in parts of the state,” Beshear said. “And remember, the same flood fighters are also our snow fighters.”

The governor declared a state of emergency ahead of the storms, and over the weekend, President Donald Trump approved federal emergency funding to assist Kentucky’s recovery efforts.