Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed on Saturday that four people have died as a result of flash floods caused by intense thunderstorms that dumped up to 7 inches (18 cm) of rain across the state. In a social media post, Beshear identified the victims as three from Madison County and one from Jackson County. "Please join Britainy and me as we pray for their families during this difficult time," he said.
Heavy Rainfall and Widespread Flooding
The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for parts of Kentucky and Indiana on Saturday. By late Saturday, some areas in southwestern Indiana had already received between 4 and 10 inches of rain, with more expected. Beshear declared a state of emergency, noting that the intense rainfall was forecast to continue until 11 p.m. ET.
"This is a serious flooding event, where teams have already had to conduct multiple water rescues from vehicles and homes across the commonwealth," Beshear said in a statement. "As more heavy rain continues through late tonight, we need folks to remain alert and to avoid driving, especially after dark when there is limited visibility."
Landslide Threat Prompts Evacuation
In Bullitt County, northwestern Kentucky, emergency management officials asked residents of a rural road to evacuate as a precaution after a landslide occurred at a dam embankment. Officials stated that the dam was holding and there was no indication of imminent failure. The area had received about 3 inches of rain over the past two days, according to the National Weather Service.
The Associated Press contributed reporting.
