BREAKING: Kentucky is hit by “one of the worst flash flood events of all time” as homes and cars are swept away and people are missing after megastorms dumped at least 10 inches of rain
- WKYT chief meteorologist said: ‘Words fail me to describe the devastation’
- There are numerous severe weather warnings throughout the state, especially in the east
- The Breathitt County Courthouse opened as a housing facility for displaced persons
Kentucky was hit by “one of the worst flash flooding events on record” after overnight storms dropped at least 10 inches of rain and left people missing as homes were flooded.
Houses across the state are swamped by murky rainwater and swollen rivers sweep cars down.
Chris Bailey, WKYT’s chief meteorologist, said: “Words fail me to describe the amount of devastation that daylight will uncover across eastern Kentucky.
“This will likely go down in history as one of the worst flash flood events to ever hit the state.”
Houses across the state have been inundated by murky rainwater and swollen rivers are washing away cars
Streets in eastern Kentucky are swamped with downpours after overnight flash flooding hit the state
Houses in the area have been inundated by murky rainwater and swollen rivers are washing away cars
Chris Bailey, WKYT’s chief meteorologist, said, “I don’t have the words to describe the amount of devastation that daylight will uncover in eastern Kentucky.”
Homes across the state are being submerged due to the severe flooding
Floyd County has declared a state of emergency over the severe flash flooding that hit Kentucky overnight
Severe weather warnings are rife across the state, and in Breathitt County, the courthouse has opened up as a shelter for people displaced by the floods.
The county emergency department said: “Many roads in the county are being submerged in water and are impassable. Please stay off the streets tonight if possible.
“The courthouse is open at this time for those displaced by rising waters if you have no other place to go.”
Severe weather warnings are rife across the state, and in Breathitt County, the courthouse has opened up as a shelter for people displaced by the floods
State Gov. Andy Beshear wrote: “Kentucky please be weather aware”
The National Weather Service says life-threatening flash floods could be a possibility in several counties, including Breathitt, Perry, Owsley, Knott and Clay.
At least five water rescues were underway in Perry County as of four hours ago.
The Weather Channel tweeted that most flash flood warnings are in eastern Kentucky.
State Gov. Andy Beshear wrote: “Kentucky, please be weather aware.
“Heavy rain is expected across the Commonwealth through Friday, with possible flooding in the eastern part of the state. Please remain vigilant and take every precaution to protect yourself and others.’
Alongside his alert, he uploaded an image showing forecast rainfall levels across the state through Friday.