Beshear thanks Homeland Security secretary, Trump for supporting Kentucky after deadly flooding

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — Gov. Andy Beshear addressed the Commonwealth as Kentuckians continue to deal with the aftermath of deadly, widespread flooding.

“We want to thank the secretary and both administrators for coming to Kentucky, for caring enough to travel here and see our people firsthand,” Beshear said Wednesday.

The news conference was originally scheduled to feature Beshear and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, but due to a last-minute delay, Noem wasn’t able to join Beshear.

“First I want to thank President Trump and Secretary Noem for quickly granting Kentucky an expedited major disaster declaration,” Beshear.

The expedited major disaster declaration has paved the way for residents to receive federal assistance as they begin the recovery process.

“We saw an expedited major disaster declaration for 11 counties and we will be pushing to add additional counties,” Beshear said.

Beshear visited with flood-affected Kentuckians in Perry and Knott counties on Wednesday alongside senior advisor Rocky Adkins.

“We’re in Eastern Kentucky today to make sure that we are helping our friends and neighbors recover from this flooding,” Gov. Beshear said. “We are getting the word out to the folks in need on how to apply for assistance and making sure they know we’re going to be there for them every step of the way as they recover.”

Kentucky State Parks are sheltering 284 people affected by the floods across six state parks. The governor said more rooms are open and available if needed.

Although floodwaters have lowered, Kentucky is still seeing the effects. According to the governor’s office, 66 state highways are closed, and 11 closures were due to mudslides and rockslides.

“High water is still affecting travel, primarily in Western and Southern Kentucky,” the governor’s office said.

It’s estimated that over 200 state highways have been damaged, many being reduced to one lane. Closures and traffic conditions are available online here.

“Kentucky, we may get knocked down, but we always get back up. The devastation from flooding is widespread, but we’re already making progress,” Beshear said. “We will rebuild together.”

Federal assistance available

Local governments, eligible nonprofits, and affected individuals in 11 Kentucky counties will qualify for federal assistance through FEMA. The governor noted that additional designations and counties may be eligible at a later date following damage surveys.

Those affected can apply for FEMA assistance here.

Additionally, on Tuesday the U.S. Small Business Administration approved disaster loans for 22 counties, including:

• Bell
• Breathitt
• Clay
• Estill
• Floyd
• Harlan
• Jackson
• Johnson
• Knott
• Knox
• Lawrence
• Lee
• Leslie
• Letcher
• Magoffin
• Martin
• Owsley
• Perry
• Pike
• Powell
• Wolfe

Applications for disaster loans can be submitted here.

Many Kentuckians in flooded areas have been left without housing, the governor said that this is an issue that “can’t wait.” Flood survivors are encouraged to click here for more information on housing assistance.

Shelter is also available for those in need at Kentucky State Parks.

How you can help

The governor has launched the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund.

As of Wednesday morning, $412,294 has been raised, per the governor’s office.

“These dollars will first help pay for each victim’s funeral,” the governor’s office said.

Beshear also urges Kentuckians to donate blood if they’re able.

Click here for more information on flood relief.

Dustin Massengill contributed to this story.