Recent deadly floods have wreaked havoc in several states, particularly in Kentucky and other areas of the Ohio Valley and mid-Atlantic. A coast-to-coast winter storm led to rising water levels, claiming the lives of at least 13 individuals across various states. The storm brought severe winds and heavy rainfall, resulting in disastrous flooding in Kentucky, where the situation remains critical.
Despite the storm passing, the aftermath continues to pose risks as waterways remain swollen and more rain is forecasted. In West Virginia, Governor Patrick Morrisey reported several individuals missing amidst substantial flooding. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear emphasized ongoing rescue efforts, highlighting the need to evacuate those still in harm’s way.
Emergency response teams, including the Kentucky National Guard and State Police, have conducted over 1,000 rescues, prioritizing areas where rivers are yet to crest. With hundreds of roads closed due to flooding and more rain expected, authorities are vigilant for potential new flooding incidents.
The recent floods in Kentucky mark a tragic event, reminiscent of the catastrophic flooding that struck the state two years prior. Governor Beshear declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm and expressed gratitude for federal assistance approved by President Trump. Federal aid funding will support search and rescue operations and aid recovery efforts in affected regions.
Beyond Kentucky, other states such as Virginia, West Virginia, and Tennessee have also faced significant flooding challenges. Flash flood emergencies were issued, highlighting the severity of the situation and the urgent need for evacuation in some areas. Rising river levels and icy conditions in Virginia have compounded the danger, posing a hypothermia risk for those exposed to the cold waters.
As the nation braces for further impact from the winter storm, efforts are underway to safeguard communities and provide assistance to those affected by the devastating floods.
A Facebook post by Sandlin detailed the impact of a powerful storm that wreaked havoc across various regions. Beyond deadly flooding, the storm unleashed severe thunderstorms in the South, heavy snow in parts of the Great Lakes and Northeast, and powerful winds in the East.
Tragically, in the Grove Park area of Atlanta, one person lost their life when a large tree fell on a home during intense thunderstorm activity. The Atlanta Fire Rescue responded to the incident, finding the individual trapped inside the house. Despite efforts to rescue them, the person succumbed to the circumstances.
The storm caused widespread power outages, affecting over 500,000 homes and businesses. By Monday morning, more than 300,000 remained without power, as reported by PowerOutage.us. Across southwest Virginia, multiple agencies conducted water rescues in response to ongoing flooding.
As frigid Arctic air began to move into the northern United States, a record-breaking cold snap was forecast for the central region. Life-threatening cold was expected to grip a vast area, with temperatures and wind chills plummeting significantly.
The Northern Plains were set to experience wind chills as low as 60 degrees below zero, while regions from Texas to Tennessee faced freezing temperatures. In cities like Kansas City, Dallas, and Houston, temperatures were expected to drop dramatically over a short period.
A winter storm originating in the Rockies was projected to strengthen as it moved through the Plains and South, bringing heavy snow accumulations to various states. Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Kentucky were in line for significant snowfall, while places like Oklahoma City and Little Rock were warned of potential ice accumulation.
Arkansas declared a state of emergency in anticipation of the storm’s impact. Picturesque yet concerning scenes of flooding in Pikeville, Kentucky, captured the attention of passersby, illustrating the severity of the situation.
CNN’s team of reporters and contributors provided updates on the storm and its aftermath. For more news and updates, viewers were encouraged to visit CNN’s website and create an account for access to newsletters and additional content.
