Four dead in Kentucky after heavy rain and floods, governor declares state of emergency

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms have caused severe flooding in Kentucky, resulting in the deaths of four people, Governor Andy Beshear announced Saturday. He has declared a state of emergency for the affected areas as additional rainfall is anticipated.

Flash flood warnings were issued for portions of Kentucky and Indiana on Saturday. The National Weather Service reported that some areas in southwestern Indiana had already received between 4 and 10 inches of rain, with more precipitation expected. In Kentucky, up to 7 inches of rain were forecast for some regions through the late evening.

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This is a serious flooding event, where teams have already had to conduct multiple water rescues from vehicles and homes across the commonwealth.

Governor Beshear confirmed that three fatalities occurred in Madison County and one in Jackson County due to the flooding. He described the situation as serious, with rescue teams conducting multiple water rescues from vehicles and homes. "As more heavy rain continues through late tonight, we need folks to remain alert and to avoid driving, especially after dark when there is limited visibility," Beshear stated.

Significant disruptions have been reported, including numerous roads underwater in Madison County, rendering at least 12 state roads impassable. In Bullitt County, northwestern Kentucky, emergency management officials advised residents of a rural road to evacuate as a precautionary measure due to a landslide at a dam embankment. While the dam remains secure, the situation prompted the evacuation notice.

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As more heavy rain continues through late tonight, we need folks to remain alert and to avoid driving, especially after dark when there is limited visibility.