Governor Beshear says President Biden has ordered federal aid for 13 Kentucky counties hit with historic flooding. During his morning briefing Friday the governor reported 16 confirmed deaths, but added that number could get, quote, “a lot higher.”
“To all the families that know you’ve already sustained a loss, we’re going to grieve with you, we’re going to support you and we’re going to be here for you, not just today, but tomorrow and in the weeks and years to come,” said Beshear.
The governor said well over 300 people are in ten different shelters in eastern Kentucky. Beshear noted close to 300 have been rescued, about a hundred through helicopter hoists. He spoke about evacuations near Panbowl Lake in Jackson. Beshear added he’s not aware of any other dams at risk of breaching at this time.
Joining the governor was Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell. She began her remarks referring to last December’s tornado event in western Kentucky and now eastern Kentucky flooding.
“My heart aches for you, again going through so much tragedy again so soon. As you heard from President Biden, we are here to help you as we are still in this life saving portion of this mission, but we will also be here to assist you as you go through your recovery,” said Criswell.
Weather conditions in the Hazard area prevented the governor and the FEMA administrator from an on the ground tour of the flooded region. Beshear said an aerial trip over Breathitt County would take place.
