Louisville, KY – Rising floodwaters along the Ohio River have caused significant disruption across Louisville, prompting swift and coordinated action from first responders. Over the past few days, several water rescues have been carried out as flood levels continue to rise, overwhelming neighborhoods, roads, and buildings.
On Monday afternoon, WDRB’s Christie Battista reported from the Interstate 71 entrance ramp at Zorn Avenue, where the situation worsened dramatically within a short span. “This ramp was open at 2:30,” Battista noted. “By 3:00, it was closed. That gives you an idea of just how fast this water is rising.”
As floodwaters surged, residents found themselves trapped in affected areas. Among the hardest-hit locations was the Candlewood Suites near Zorn Avenue and River Road. The hotel, surrounded by water, required the evacuation of 80 guests after it was announced that the power would be shut off. “The power company’s gonna shut off the power, so we had to evacuate,” said one guest. “There’s no danger of that hotel flooding, but if they shut the power off, we’re doomed.”
Emergency responders worked tirelessly to evacuate the guests, using heavy equipment, including a loader, to carry luggage to safety as evacuees were transported away from the dangerous conditions. In addition to hotel guests, nearly a dozen workers who had been conducting repairs on nearby water mains also required rescue.
“Our trucks and most of our stuff is stranded,” one worker commented. “We’ll do the best we can for the next two or three days.”
Louisville Fire Captain Michael Renn highlighted the department’s readiness for a variety of rescue operations. “It could be as easy as getting somebody out of their car underneath a viaduct that’s flooded,” Renn said. “It could be flooded roadway or assisting people from their apartments, hotels, and things like that.” Despite the expectation that water levels would rise, the speed at which the flooding intensified has caught many residents and officials off guard.
To assist in the growing crisis, nearly 20 rescue boats have been placed on standby by the Louisville Fire Department, ensuring the city is prepared for any emergency. Additionally, FEMA, the National Guard, and the LMPD dive team have joined forces, responding not only within the city but also assisting nearby counties, including Bullitt County.
“We sent a dive and rescue team from LMPD to Bullitt County,” said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. “We helped when the Bullitt County jail flooded. We’ve been helping their inmates and housing them in our gymnasium at the corrections facility here.”
As the Ohio River continues to swell toward its crest, officials are urging the public to stay vigilant and heed safety warnings. The common but crucial advice to “turn around, don’t drown” has been emphasized in efforts to prevent more dangerous situations. Local authorities remain on high alert, prepared to respond to further flooding and provide assistance to those in need.
“We’re just thankful someone came and got us out of there,” said one evacuee, reflecting the gratitude of many who have been rescued as floodwaters continue to rise in the region.
As Louisville braces for additional flooding, the collaboration between local agencies, state resources, and federal assistance highlights the importance of preparedness and rapid response in mitigating the effects of natural disasters.
