A powerful storm system has unleashed a trail of destruction across the eastern United States, with severe flooding claiming at least nine lives in Kentucky and causing widespread damage in several other states.
Kentucky has been particularly hard hit, with floodwaters inundating homes, businesses, and roadways. “This is one of the most serious weather events we’ve dealt with in at least a decade,” said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear.
Emergency responders have conducted over 1,000 rescues in the state, and the death toll is expected to rise as search efforts continue. Fatalities have been reported in Hart, Pike, and Clay counties, with many involving vehicles attempting to navigate flooded roadways.
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“We need Kentuckians to remain alert,” Beshear urged. “There are more than 300 road closures…Please plan ahead, avoid travel, and stay safe, Kentucky.”
The flooding has caused widespread disruptions, with nearly 40,000 residents without power, thousands lacking water service, and many under boil-water advisories. Schools in Pike County are closed until further notice.
Officials in Beattyville, Kentucky, were forced to evacuate the entire city due to rising floodwaters. A nursing home in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, was also evacuated, and 52 residents were relocated to a safer facility.
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In addition to the devastating flooding, the storm system spawned tornadoes in several Southern states. An EF-1 tornado touched down in Alabama, causing significant damage to homes, while four tornadoes were reported in Mississippi.
The storm brought torrential rainfall to parts of Kentucky and Tennessee, with some areas receiving up to 6 inches of rain. The heavy rain, combined with melting snowpack, led to overflowing rivers and streams.
Strong winds also caused damage across the region, downing trees and power lines. In Atlanta, Georgia, one person was killed when a large tree fell on a home.
The storm system also brought heavy snow and blizzard conditions to parts of the Northeast, causing hazardous travel conditions and power outages.
This widespread and devastating storm has left a trail of destruction across the eastern U.S., highlighting the importance of preparedness and heeding warnings from authorities during severe weather events.
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