State leaders ramping up emergency preparedness ahead of heavy rainfall

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency as a heavy rainstorm is set to hit the Commonwealth, bringing with it the potential for significant flooding. 

Beshear warned that the storm could affect any part of the state, urging residents to remain vigilant. “We could potentially see flooding in any corner and any part and in any community of our state,” he said.

With several inches of rain forecasted to fall over the weekend, many Kentuckians are preparing for the worst, as flooding remains a familiar threat to the region. 

Local leaders are stressing the importance of preparedness and urging residents to take steps to protect their homes and properties.

“You think about what happens when it rains in your neighborhood or your house; if you tend to get water in one spot if your backyard backs up, go ahead and start watching out for those things, because there’s going to be a lot of rain and not a whole lot of time,” said Emily Fay, Lexington-Fayette Emergency Management Public Information Officer. “So you’re probably going to see that again and take the precautions in your area that you need. If you know your basement is going to get water, elevate all things you don’t want to get ruined. If your backyard is going to get a little wet, go ahead and move that lawn furniture. Keep your pets out of it.”

This state of emergency has also brought attention to Kentucky’s preparedness efforts. 

Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky Army National Guard have been conducting regular “readiness” exercises to ensure the state is prepared for any scale of disaster. 

Eric Gibson, of Kentucky Emergency Management, explained the importance of these drills: “We’re always exercising that function that we provide for state government to make sure that we’re ready to assist the size of the disaster. We have to learn to scale very quickly from a small-scale local disaster to a statewide response, and that part is really—you’re always trying to prepare for the unknown many times.”

The primary focus, according to state officials, is ensuring the safety of all Kentuckians. Gibson emphasized, “The most important concern for us is life and limb and then people’s personal property and possessions as well.”

As the storm approaches, leaders are reminding Kentuckians to look out for one another. Fay urged residents to check on their neighbors, especially those who may need extra assistance. 

“Those with medical conditions might need a little bit of help, and they might not want to ask for it, especially since we’re seeing a lot of rain and not a whole lot of time. It’s a good idea to go walk around your neighborhood, see who needs help, and see what you can do to support others in the community.”