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Community support lifting spirits of Clay County first responders and flood victims

According to the City of Manchester, in 12 hours Saturday, members of the Manchester Swift Water Rescue squad rescued 14 adults and children and eight animals.
City of Manchester
According to the City of Manchester, in 12 hours Saturday, members of the Manchester Swift Water Rescue squad rescued 14 adults and children and eight animals.

One person was killed and 100-150 homes and businesses were damaged by the flood in Clay County, according to Emergency Management Director Rodney Wagers. Deputy Director Revelle Berry said first responders are tired, but they got a bit of a break the last two days and community support has lifted everyone’s spirits.

“We've had some community groups, some religious organizations – one group came in and brought over 150 meals into the first responders, as well as some of the areas hit heaviest.”

Berry said all 10 fire departments in the county are staffed by volunteers.

“We have 10 fire departments in the county. They're all manned voluntarily. And so we know we love this community. That's why we serve here.”

Berry said the weekend flooding is more widespread than they experienced in July 2022, but most residents learned of the threat earlier and were able to prepare.

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John McGary is a Lexington native and Navy veteran with three decades of radio, television and newspaper experience.
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