Primary search and rescue efforts have concluded one week after devastating floods wrecked much of eastern Kentucky. That is the word from Governor Andy Beshear. However, officials say that does not mean they will stop looking for people. More missing people are being found. Kentucky’s death toll remains at 37 but that is likely to rise.
During a press conference this Thursday afternoon, the governor said they are entering a new phase.
“Now we are, I would call it more stabilizing people. Think about wellness checks, think about going to check on people stranded across their creek but otherwise are unhurt, of trying to get people into housing for the next week.”
Many people are dealing with FEMA workers to get individual assistance. Beshear said not to be discouraged and keep pushing if you are initially denied.
“Go into one of our facilities. Look somebody face to face, make sure you know all those reasons and that you appeal. I think a lot of what happens is people get online and may answer one question wrong unintentionally. We don’t want that to prevent people from getting it.”
The governor announced that residents of Owsley County are now eligible for individual assistance from FEMA. This now brings the number of counties eligible to eight in the impacted region.
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