LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Two families in Louisville’s Prospect area were advised to evacuate their homes Sunday after emergency crews discovered the land beneath their properties was slipping into Harrods Creek, following days of heavy rainfall.
Louisville Metro Emergency Services confirmed Monday that the homes, located at 8703 and 8711 Lynnhall Court just off U.S. 42 and north of Interstate 265, are situated on a section of ground currently “sliding into Harrods Creek.” The creek had swollen well beyond its banks after persistent rain, prompting concerns about erosion and ground instability.
Firefighters with Anchorage Middletown Fire & EMS assessed the site Sunday and deemed the area unsafe for residents. Louisville Gas & Electric also responded after a utility pole in the area toppled on Sunday evening, posing additional hazards and requiring immediate stabilization.
While emergency officials urged both families to evacuate, one household has chosen to remain. Anthony and Cheryl Buckley, who live at 8703 Lynnhall Court, said a city building inspector had not condemned their home, which influenced their decision to stay.
“It’s my home,” Cheryl Buckley said. “Everything I have — especially the last 20 years — has been put into this house. And I just can’t let go like that.”
The Buckleys had been on vacation in Florida when they received a call notifying them that their backyard had collapsed. They returned immediately to assess the damage.
“It’s more than horrible,” Buckley said. “It’s like, ‘Oh my gosh, we could get up tomorrow and our house could go down the river.’ You have these thoughts.”
First responders have marked visible cracks in the soil and concrete around the area to monitor any changes. City officials stated they are in contact with the Natural Resources Conservation Service to evaluate the situation and determine next steps for land stabilization and resident safety.
In the meantime, the American Red Cross is assisting displaced residents with temporary accommodations as officials continue to assess soil stability and the overall safety of the homes.
