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State officials stress safety as disaster preparation week begins

Governor Andy Beshear
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YouTube

This week is disaster preparedness week in Kentucky.

That comes after widespread flooding and cold weather throughout Kentucky. Twenty-four deaths from the weather have been reported by the state as of Monday.

State officials are reminding Kentuckians to create an emergency plan and put together an emergency kit in case of severe weather. They also say to stay regularly informed about the upcoming forecast.

Gov. Andy Beshear said during his regular media briefing Thursday those preparations are crucial in the wake of the recent disaster.

“Let's just take this week to remember all the disasters we've been hit by, but how each time, we've been better prepared, and how all of our families are better prepared. We can have better outcomes each time,” Beshear said.

State officials are reminding Kentuckians to create an emergency plan and put together an emergency kit in case of severe weather. They also say to stay regularly informed about the upcoming forecast.

Institutions across Kentucky will be taking part in a statewide tornado drill Friday morning as part of the week. The National Weather Service says it can be a way to practice tornado safety.

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Shepherd joined WEKU in June 2023 as a staff reporter. He most recently worked for West Virginia Public Broadcasting as General Assignment Reporter. In that role, he collected interviews and captured photos in the northern region of West Virginia. Shepherd holds a master’s degree in Digital Marketing Communication and a bachelor’s in music from West Virginia University.
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