Kentucky officials have confirmed that major flooding in the state has led to at least nine deaths, including a mother and her 7-year-old daughter.
According to WNKY-TV, Hart County Coroner Tony Roberts confirmed that a mother and her 7-year-old daughter were killed on Saturday night after their vehicle was submerged in water. The outlet noted that Roberts confirmed the 7-year-old’s body was recovered on Saturday night, while Hart County Search and Rescue confirmed that the mother’s body was recovered on Sunday afternoon.
In a Sunday statement on X, formerly Twitter, Gov. Andy Beshear (D-Ky.) announced that nine individuals had been confirmed dead as a result of the flooding.
“I am sad to share some more tough news tonight, Kentucky,” Beshear said. “We just confirmed another weather-related death out of Pike County, bringing our total loss to 9 people.”
According to Fox News, Beshear noted that the majority of the flooding-related deaths were caused by vehicles getting stuck in the flood waters. Beshear also confirmed that over 1,000 rescues had been conducted since the start of the flooding on Saturday.
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“So folks, stay off the roads right now and stay alive,” the Kentucky governor warned. “This is the search and rescue phase, and I am very proud of all the Kentuckians that are out there responding, putting their lives on the line.”
Fox News reported that roughly 39,000 homes lost power as a result of Saturday’s storm; however, Beshear warned residents that power outages could increase due to high winds.
One social media user shared a video and pictures of the widespread flooding in Kentucky, writing, “This flood is like nothing I’ve ever seen! Clay County, Kentucky is under water.”
Another social media user shared pictures of the damage caused to entire communities by the devastating flooding in Kentucky. The pictures also show cars almost completely submerged in water. “Pray for Kentucky. We are not okay!” the social media user tweeted. “Over a thousand rescues today, 9 confirmed deaths, roads swept out, bridges collapsed, countless homes & property destroyed.”
On Sunday, Beshear announced that “widespread flooding” in Kentucky was “continuing.” He added, “The statewide impact is massive, with hundreds of water rescues and multiple fatalities. Evacuations are continuing as this event will continue through today.”
According to Fox News, President Donald Trump approved Kentucky’s request for a disaster declaration, which will allow the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help coordinate disaster relief efforts.
On Monday, Beshear shared an update on social media regarding the flooding, saying, “Kentucky is still experiencing widespread impacts from the severe weather. We need everyone to be aware that conditions are dangerous, and folks need to stay off the roads in areas with high water.”