"Between six and seven inches of rain fell in some parts of the state."
A series of severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall caused widespread flash flooding across Kentucky on Saturday, resulting in at least five fatalities and prompting Governor Andy Beshear to declare a state of emergency.
Fatalities and Rescue Operations
Officials confirmed multiple deaths related to the flooding:
- Madison County: Three adults died. Two individuals drowned in the basement of a flooded home in Richmond, and one person died in a vehicle-involved incident related to the weather.
- Jackson County: One fatality has been reported.
- A motorist in an unspecified location was swept away by floodwaters and killed.
The Madison County Coroner stated that the identities of the three deceased in that county have not been publicly released. Officials indicated that additional fatalities were expected to be confirmed.
Rescue operations are ongoing. Five search and rescue teams have been deployed to Madison County, and multiple high-axle vehicles are being used for water rescues. Swift water rescue teams and state police are responding to emergency requests. An emergency landing station has been established at the Madison Home shelter.
Government Response
Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency to facilitate the deployment of additional resources. Local states of emergency have been declared in five counties: Bullitt, Madison, Meade, Mercer, and Spencer.
Residents were advised not to call 911 for road conditions. Officials provided an alternative number (1-800-255-2587) and the website goKY.ky.gov for reporting road hazards.
Damage and Infrastructure
Between six and seven inches of rain fell in some parts of the state. The flooding has caused significant infrastructure damage:
- At least 12 state roads are closed due to flooding.
- Multiple bridges in Jessamine County have been destroyed.
- In Bullitt County, officials reported a "moderate dam failure" following a landslide on its embankment. An evacuation order was issued for the city of Lebanon Junction. Officials stated there was no indication of an imminent, catastrophic failure.
- Major intersections in Richmond are flooded, and a church building in the area has reportedly collapsed.
Evacuations and Shelters
- Bullitt County: Evacuations have been ordered for Lebanon Junction due to the dam situation.
- Madison County: A shelter has been opened at the Madison Home location to accommodate displaced residents.
Weather Outlook
Flood watches remained in effect through Saturday night for many counties. A second round of heavy rainfall was expected between 2 p.m. and 11 p.m. local time. Governor Beshear advised residents not to drive after dark. Officials expressed concern over waterlogged roads and downed trees, noting that flash floods can occur within minutes to hours of heavy rainfall.
Background
Kentucky has experienced severe flooding events in recent years, including deadly flash floods in early 2025 and catastrophic floods in 2022.