Governor says entire state affected by historic flooding, death toll climbs to 11
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 17, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided an update on severe weather affecting much of the commonwealth.
“Kentucky, we are still in the search-and-rescue phase as this deadly storm system continues to affect much of our commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “Please continue to stay safe and check in on any vulnerable family members, friends and neighbors.”
The Governor said that, as of 9 a.m. Monday, there were 11 confirmed deaths connected to the severe weather. The fatalities include motor vehicle-related deaths of men in Hart and Nelson counties; and floodwater-related deaths of a man in Clay County, a woman and a child in Hart County, three men in Pike County, a woman in Washington County, a man in Hardin County and a man in Floyd County.
Ahead of the storm, the Governor declared a state of emergency. On Saturday, Gov. Beshear requested, and President Donald Trump granted, an emergency disaster declaration for Kentucky.
The Governor also launched the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund. To donate, click here.
The Governor was joined at Monday morning’s briefing by Eric Gibson, director of the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management; Jim Gray, secretary of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC); Jeremy Slinker, coordinating officer for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); and Col. Phillip “PJ” Burnett Jr., commissioner of the Kentucky State Police (KSP).
Current Weather Conditions: Among the biggest concerns this week is flooding along rivers and creeks. The basins expected to have the heaviest impacts include the Kentucky River, Rolling Fork and Green River. Another snowstorm is forecast for Tuesday night through Wednesday, with 2 to 6 inches of snow expected and the highest totals in Western Kentucky.
Operation Teams: Federal urban search and rescue (USAR) Teams from Indiana, Ohio and Tennessee are engaged here.
Power Outages: As of 10:20 a.m. Monday, a reported 14,416 customers were without power.
Water Outages: As of 8 a.m. Monday – Drinking Water: 17,245 customers were without water, and 28,070 customers were under Boil Water Advisories. One water system was offline and 28 systems were under limited operations. Wastewater: Seven wastewater systems were not operational, and 33 wastewater systems were under limited operation. Nine wastewater plants were experiencing bypasses, and six systems were experiencing discharges from portions of their collection systems.
Kentucky National Guard: Currently, 175 soldiers and airmen are engaged in operations, including four from the Indiana Guard.
“Today, we will welcome additional aviation crews from Indiana and Tennessee, strengthening our response to include National Guards from three states,” Gov. Beshear said. “Their mission remains extremely dangerous, yet our guardsmen continue to respond with bravery.”
Kentucky State Police: Since the morning of Feb. 15, KSP telecommunicators have answered more than 6,600 calls for service. KSP personnel continue to assist with water rescues and welfare checks in the affected areas.
Kentucky State Parks: Currently, 143 people are being sheltered at four Kentucky state resort parks, occupying a total of 72 rooms:
- Buckhorn Lake: 2 adults
- Jenny Wiley: 90 adults, 23 children
- Natural Bridge: 16 adults, 9 children
- Pine Mountain: 2 adults, 1 child
The Governor said more rooms are open and available as needed.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Secretary Gray said roads were affected by the storm in nearly all 120 Kentucky counties. State highway closures: 344 from flooding, 14 from mudslides and three from rockslides.
The worst problems are focused in Western, Southern and Southeastern Kentucky, from Paducah to Pikeville.
“About 2,300 Department of Highways personnel remain focused on restoring vital transportation links and keeping Kentuckians safe,” Secretary Gray said.
Even as they prepare snowplows ahead of the coming storm, crews across the state are continuing to monitor high water, clear slides and debris and assess road damage as floodwaters recede.
Driver’s license offices in Prestonsburg, Pikeville and Manchester are closed today, with no access due to flooded roads.
Emergency Shelters: As of 8 a.m. Monday, 12 emergency shelters were helping those affected by the storms:
- Lee’s College Gymnasium and Jackson City School in Breathitt County;
- Paces Creek Elementary School and Laurel Creek Church of God in Clay County;
- Henderson County Public Library and The Harbor House of Men in Henderson County;
- First Baptist Church in Knox County;
- Lawrence County Community Center in Lawrence County;
- Martin County Middle School in Martin County;
- McCreary County School Gym in McCreary County;
- Senior Center in Owen County; and
- New Life Church in Pulaski County.
When To Call 911: If you have an emergency or life-threatening situation, dial 911 for immediate available assistance.
Rapid Needs Assessment: If you have immediate needs that are not life-threatening, please complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form or call 502-607-6665. These needs include: power is out or inconsistent; no heat or very little heat; individuals with medical needs or disabilities; no food or unable to cook; no or very little drinking water; unable to leave house due to weather and no transportation; phone issues; unable to leave vehicle; checking on a loved one; and more.
Emergency Prescription Refills: Gov. Beshear signed an executive order allowing Kentucky pharmacists to dispense emergency 30-day refills for any non-controlled medication.
Safety Tips:
- Watch your step. Floodwaters often hide sharp and dangerous debris, like broken glass and metal. Floodwater can also be contaminated with oil, gasoline or sewage.
- Wear the appropriate protective clothing and gear such as boots, gloves and safety glasses when moving debris.
- Stay away from electrical utility equipment after a storm, or if it is wet, to prevent being electrocuted. Report any utility issues to your local utility company.
- Flooded homes are hazards. Get a professional to check for loose wires, mold and hidden damage before re-entering.
- Use generators or other gas-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.
- Never drive into a road covered with flowing water. One foot of flowing water can sweep a car off the road; two feet will carry away an SUV or pickup. Even six inches of water can knock you off your feet. Never walk or drive through swift water. Turn around, don’t drown!
- Respect barricades and posted signage. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around. You’re not only putting your own life at risk, but also the lives of first responders.
- If you encounter a dark traffic signal, treat it as a four-way stop.
Drivers are urged to check traffic conditions before traveling at GoKy.ky.gov.
For additional preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.