Kentucky Faces Devastating Flooding: 9 Dead, Over 1,000 Rescued

Severe weather leaves thousands without power as emergency crews work tirelessly to save lives.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Catastrophic flooding has overwhelmed Kentucky, leading to more than 1,000 rescues as first responders race against time to assist those trapped by rising waters. At least nine fatalities have been confirmed, and officials warn the toll could climb as search-and-rescue operations continue.

“This is one of the most serious weather events we’ve dealt with in at least a decade,” Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said on Sunday.

The deaths were reported in multiple counties, including Hart, Pike, and Clay, with several fatalities occurring when vehicles were swept away by floodwaters. Authorities continue urging residents to avoid driving through flooded roads to prevent further tragedies.

In Hart County, a mother and her 7-year-old child lost their lives after their vehicle was overtaken by rushing waters near Interstate 65, officials confirmed. Meanwhile, in Clay County, emergency responders recovered the body of a 73-year-old man who was caught in floodwaters, according to local authorities.

Widespread Power and Water Outages

The storm has left nearly 40,000 Kentucky residents without power, while 9,800 service connections lack running water and 26,000 are under a boil-water advisory. In response, Pike County School District announced Sunday that all schools will remain closed until further notice.

President Donald Trump has approved federal disaster relief funding to assist affected communities, Governor Beshear confirmed.

Extreme Weather Across the Region

Beyond Kentucky, severe storms have impacted multiple states:

• Alabama: An EF-1 tornado struck Hale and Perry counties, severely damaging multiple homes.
• Mississippi: Four tornadoes touched down, including an EF-1 in Shannon and an EF-0 in South Fairview.
• Tennessee: A levee in Rives failed, leading to neighborhood flooding.
• Georgia & Florida: Tornado watches were issued Sunday morning due to storm threats.
• Northern Plains & New England: Frigid temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees near the Canadian border, with wind chills reaching minus 50 in the Dakotas and Minnesota. Meanwhile, parts of New York and New England brace for heavy snowfall and whiteout conditions.

Kentucky Communities Devastated

In Beattyville, Kentucky, a town of 2,150 residents, officials ordered evacuations due to rising floodwaters. The Lee County Emergency Management Office reported that all affected areas have been cleared except for a nursing home and an apartment complex, where authorities are still attempting to make contact with residents.

In Lexington, Kentucky, a flood warning remains in effect until 4:30 p.m. Monday, while Hazard, Kentucky, faces a boil-water advisory due to water contamination concerns.

A Moment of Relief Amidst the Chaos

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While the state recovers from the historic flooding, officials stress the importance of staying informed, avoiding floodwaters, and supporting relief efforts. As first responders continue their life-saving work, the hope is that Kentucky and its neighboring states will soon see brighter days ahead.