Key flood safety reminders as rain continues
Experts stress preparation as Kentucky sees record rainfall
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The ABC 36 Storm Team is continuing to monitor ongoing rainfall and flood watches heading into the weekend.
One area under a flood watch is Elkhorn Creek in Franklin County, a location long known for flooding dangers. The creek claimed the life of a kayaker in 2018 and another man just last month.
Now, as Kentucky experiences record rainfall for the year, experts are urging residents to be prepared and stay aware of changing conditions.
“It’s based on like geography and height, so if you’re near a low lying river it’s easier for water to pool if you’re in a higher area it’s got to go up farther. It’s just like peaks and valleys when it comes to flooding, so if you are in that area, that is low lying and more prone to flooding it’s much more important to pay attention keep head to those warnings,” said Emily Fay with Lexington-Fayette Emergency Management.
Officials say in some areas, especially while camping, internet access may be unavailable, which could prevent people from receiving alerts. However, one tool can still provide vital warnings.
“Make sure you have a NOAA weather radio with you, because you can get a radio signal a lot of places you can’t get a phone signal. So you might not be able to check the weather app or get texts from somebody but that radio will sound off and help you get to safety,” Fay said.
Emergency management leaders say those planning to travel to flood-prone areas, including campsites, should monitor weather alerts closely and plan accordingly.
“You want to avoid setting up your campsite in a low lying area stay on those higher grounds. If you know if there’s a warning coming out or a potential for one really evaluate if you want to go camping that weekend, it might be the weekend to stay home and reschedule,” Fay said.
Meanwhile, officials are also reminding drivers that the majority of flash flood deaths occur in vehicles, often when people attempt to drive through high water and become trapped.
