Kentucky leaders emphasize importance of safety, caution from residents as below-freezing conditions take hold

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — On Wednesday, state officials are scheduled to address the public amid a state of emergency in Kentucky as weather-related hazards have taken the lives of 14 people.

Around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Gov. Andy Beshear was joined by Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray along with leaders from Kentucky Emergency Management and FEMA following overnight snow that left roads dangerous, with more snow inbound overnight and into Thursday morning.

“The areas hit hardest by flooding are going to get another 3 to 4 inches of snow tonight,” Gov. Beshear said. “And if the snow wasn’t tough enough, it’s cold right now, and it’s going to get dangerously cold tonight into tomorrow. The wind chills across much of Kentucky are going to get down into the single digits or even lower.”

Beshear said that there are still over 200 state and federal roads impacted by hazardous weather conditions. A full map of roads affected by flooding and winter weather in Kentucky can be viewed at the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) website.

Across the Commonwealth, there are currently just over 1,500 customers without power, according to the state’s outage map.

Gov. Beshear thanked the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife on Wednesday for its work since Saturday night, especially using non-conventional means to carry out wellness checks on flood survivors and deliver them food and fuel, as well as taking those with medical emergencies to receive the care they need.

To donate to people affected by the flooding, visit the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund at teamkystormrelieffund.ky.gov. Beshear said the first use of the fund goes toward paying for funerals so families don’t have to wait to be reimbursed.

Anyone facing immediate needs is asked to fill out the rapid needs form at KYEM.KY.gov or by calling 502-607-6665. Those in a life-threatening situation or emergency are urged to call 911.

Beshear announced on Wednesday that Kentucky is in the process of applying to FEMA for individual assistance. If approved, this help would provide funding for the immediate needs of those impacted by the flooding and severe winter weather and also allow for more long-term financial help.

Over 200 people are being sheltered across four Kentucky State Parks, state leaders said. Over 100 adults and nearly 40 children are being sheltered at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park. More rooms in the parks are available as needed, per a news release.