FRANKFORT, Ky: (February 26, 2019) – Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) is still activated in response to continual flooding conditions throughout Kentucky.
Since February 6, Kentucky has experienced prolonged episodes of storms which have produced heavy rain, strong and gusting wind, flooding and flash flooding, landslides and mudslides across the Commonwealth.
Governor Matt Bevin declared a State of Emergency yesterday for the Commonwealth. The executive order enables the mobilization of state resources to be utilized in support of cities and counties as needed.
KYEM has been coordinating daily with the US Army Corps of Engineers assisting in mitigation efforts in response to record level water releases at Wolf Creek Dam and flood control efforts at the Smithland Levee. KYEM has deployed 32 guardsmen along with 2 cargo trucks to assist with a temporary sandbag cell layer, raising the levee to 55’. The Smithland Levee is projected to crest at 52.5’ on March 2 and remain until March 6.
To date, KYEM has received 41 county and 14 city state of emergency declarations.
County Declarations: Ballard, Bell, Breathitt, Carlisle, Carter, Clay, Clinton, Crittenden, Cumberland, Elliott, Estill, Floyd, Fulton, Grant, Harlan, Hickman, Jackson, Johnson, Knox, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Livingston, Magoffin, Marshall, Martin, McCracken, Metcalfe, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Rockcastle, Russell, Union, Wayne, Webster, Whitley and Wolfe.
City Declarations: Burkesville (Cumberland), Cadiz (Trigg), (Clay City (Powell), Edmonton (Metcalfe), Grayson (Carter), Hickman (Fulton), Jenkins (Letcher), Monticello (Wayne), Paducah (McCracken), Paintsville (Johnson), Pikeville (Pike), Salyersville (Magoffin), Springfield (Washington), West Liberty (Morgan) and Whitesburg (Letcher).
Michael Dossett, director of KYEM stated “In cooperation with our partners, we have established a unity of command that includes first responders, county emergency management agencies, communities, state partners, the KY National Guard and federal agencies. Thanks for the contributions and dedication to all in helping the citizens of the Commonwealth.” Dossett continued, “We also remind citizens there are still dangers as flooding continues throughout the state. Rivers and tributaries will crest shortly but remain at record levels throughout next week.”
Steps to take to keep yourself safe after flooding:
• Watch your step. Flood waters often hide sharp and dangerous debris like broken glass and metal.
• Wear the appropriate protective clothing and gear such as boots, gloves and safety glasses when it comes to moving debris.
• Hands off! Stay away from electrical utility equipment after a storm or if it is wet to prevent being electrocuted. Report any utility issues to your local utility company.
• Flooded homes are hazards. Get a professional to check for loose wires, mold and hidden damage before re-entering.
• Avoid walking in floodwater. It can be contaminated with oil, gasoline, or sewage.
• Use generators or other gas-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.
Officials also remind citizens if they have any storm damage, to report it to your local emergency management director.
For more information about KYEM, visit www.kyem.ky.gov. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @KentuckyEM
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