‘Painful, difficult disaster’: 22 dead following Kentucky floods as state awaits federal assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — Gov. Andy Beshear and Eric Gibson, director of Kentucky Emergency Management, held a news conference Monday morning to give an update on the flooding and severe weather aftermath that has taken the lives of 22 people, up from the 21 previously reported.

Officials said the recently announced fatality was a Marshall County man who died from hypothermia.

During the briefing, the governor referred to the flooding as a “painful, difficult disaster” and reiterated how this was one of the worst disasters to hit Kentucky in years.

He confirmed that recovery efforts remain in stabilization mode, but Kentucky is still waiting for a response from the federal government following his request for an expedited major disaster declaration. The declaration would help secure funding for affected communities and families.

“This has been a tough nine or 10 days, and we are hoping the federal government will come through for us by approving funding to help our families and communities recover,” Beshear said. “As we wait, I want you all to know that you have my promise: I’ll do everything I can to help. And we’ll do everything we can to rebuild just as quickly as we can.” 

If the individual and public assistance through FEMA is approved, a maximum recovery grant of $43,600 would become available for immediate needs for those who qualify, according to the governor.

He said that Kentucky will pay for every funeral that’s a direct result of the flooding, citing how families shouldn’t be burdened with funeral expenses while trying to recover and rebuild their lives.

As of 9 a.m. on Monday, authorities confirmed there are still around 350 Kentuckians without power and more than 2,300 without drinking water.

Kentucky State Parks are sheltering 253 people across six parks, with 95 rooms occupied, and Beshear confirmed that more rooms are open and available if needed.

To donate to people affected by the flooding, visit the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund at teamkystormrelieffund.ky.gov. Officials said the first use of the fund will go to families who have lost loved ones during the floods.

Anyone facing immediate needs is asked to fill out the rapid needs form at KYEM.KY.gov or by calling 502-607-6665.