Louisville, KY. – Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has been actively involved in the recovery efforts following devastating flooding across the state. On Monday, he visited flood-affected communities in Perry and Knott counties to offer support and to assess the ongoing recovery efforts. Joined by his senior advisor, Rocky Adkins, the Governor visited Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Registration Intake Centers in Hazard and Hindman, which are providing assistance to residents in need. This marks the second major visit the Governor has made to survey flood damage, with a previous trip to Pike County last week.
In a significant development, Gov. Beshear announced that President Donald Trump had approved an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky. The declaration will provide both public and individual assistance to those in 11 counties hardest hit by the recent storms. The counties receiving aid are Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Harlan, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, and Pike. As damage assessments continue, the Governor indicated that more counties may be added to the list if further analysis warrants additional aid.
“With the approval of this declaration, Kentuckians in the affected areas can now apply for assistance to help them recover and rebuild,” Gov. Beshear stated. “We are committed to making sure every family and community impacted by these storms has the resources they need to get back on their feet.”
Residents and business owners in the designated counties who have sustained losses are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance. They can do so online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA, or by using the FEMA mobile app.
In response to the overwhelming need for assistance, the Governor also launched the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund. As of Monday morning, the fund has raised $413,294 from over 3,300 donors. The funds will be used to support those affected by the floods, with an initial focus on covering funeral expenses for victims. “We are deeply grateful for the generosity of Kentuckians and those across the country who have stepped up to help,” said Gov. Beshear. “These donations will provide crucial support to families in need during this difficult time.”
To further assist flood victims, Kentucky State Parks have been transformed into temporary shelters. As of the latest count, six state resort parks are housing 284 displaced individuals, including 113 adults and 43 children at Jenny Wiley State Park, the largest of the shelters. Other parks such as Buckhorn Lake, Cumberland Falls, Lake Barkley, Natural Bridge, and Pine Mountain are also sheltering families. The Governor assured that more rooms are available if additional shelter space is required.
“Kentucky is a state built on resilience, and our communities will continue to come together in the face of this disaster,” Gov. Beshear said. “We will do everything in our power to ensure that everyone affected by this tragedy receives the help they need to recover.”
As the recovery efforts continue, Kentuckians are urged to stay informed about further updates and assistance opportunities. For more information on how to apply for aid or donate to the relief fund, residents can visit the official Team Kentucky website or contact FEMA directly.
