The death toll remains at 37 confirmed dead from floods in eastern Kentucky. Progress continues as crews are restoring power can cell phone service the region. This means the focus can shift to stabilizing those displaced.
During a press conference Friday Governor Andy Beshear said they have moved beyond initial search and rescue. He said they have a new focus for this weekend.
“It’s wellness checks almost all day. So, to a lot of people who may be stranded in their home, but it be livable because a private bridge has been wiped out, a whole lot of wellness checks today are going to be going on.”
There is some concern for the weekend. The governor said more foul weather is expected.
“We have slow moving thunderstorms that can lead to heavy rainfall at times through Saturday. Rain and thunderstorms could lead to isolated flash flooding in eastern Kentucky.”
The governor is still urging people to apply for FEMA aid they live in the affected areas. He says not to be discouraged if you are initially denied, but to go to one of the FEMA centers and speak to a person directly.
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