LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Widespread flooding caused by nearly a week of heavy rain has left homes, businesses, and communities devastated across Kentucky and southern Indiana. The floodwaters, some reaching several feet deep, have sparked evacuations in several small towns near the Kentucky River, leaving residents scrambling to recover. As floodwaters begin to recede, emergency services and health officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions as they return to damaged homes.
Health and Safety Concerns Amid Cleanup Efforts
Public health experts are stressing the importance of safety and health when returning to flooded homes. The floodwaters are often contaminated with sharp objects, sewage, mold, and bacteria. To minimize health risks, authorities recommend that residents get a tetanus shot before beginning the cleanup process. Additionally, wearing protective gear such as rubber boots, gloves, and masks is crucial to avoid exposure to harmful contaminants.
The Environmental Protection Agency has also issued guidelines on what can and cannot be saved after flood damage. Non-porous items such as metal and plastic furniture, dishes, and jewelry can be cleaned or dried. However, items like mattresses, upholstered furniture, cushions, and medicine should be discarded to prevent exposure to bacteria and mold.
Residents in southern Indiana, particularly in Clark County, are urged to avoid direct contact with contaminated floodwaters. Health officials recommend frequent handwashing with soap, especially before eating or drinking, and suggest that children should not play in the floodwaters. Those with open wounds or symptoms of illness should seek medical attention immediately.
Louisville Water Service Unaffected by Flooding
Despite the historic flooding, Louisville Water has reassured residents that water service will not be interrupted. The utility company, however, has implemented additional protocols to manage water quality. The Ohio River’s higher turbidity, or cloudiness, has prompted adjustments in water treatment processes. While operations are continuing as usual, Louisville Water has paused its Residual Line Project along River Road to focus on monitoring and maintaining equipment at the Water Tower pumping station. Crews are being transported to and from the site by boat with the help of Louisville Fire and Rescue.
Flood Recovery Resources in Southern Indiana
Clark County, Indiana, has mobilized a variety of resources to assist residents affected by the flooding. The Indiana 211 service is available for reporting damages and requesting assistance at IN211.org or by calling 866-211-9966. In Utica, residents can access shelter and meals at the Utica United Methodist Church and the Utica Preservation Association/Community Center. Additionally, cleaning kits and mobile medical services are available to help with recovery efforts. Medical care is being provided by the Clark County Health Department Mobile Health Trailer, offering first aid, immunizations, and basic health services to residents in need.
In Jeffersonville, Clarksville, and Sellersburg, the Clark County Health Department is offering mobile medical services over the weekend, along with distribution of cleaning kits to those affected by the flooding.
FEMA Assists with Recovery Efforts
Federal aid has been activated following the declaration of a disaster by President Donald Trump. The declaration unlocks federal resources to assist with rebuilding efforts in Kentucky, including infrastructure repairs and loans for residents and businesses. A FEMA mobile emergency response unit has been deployed to Louisville to support recovery operations. On Wednesday afternoon, FEMA representatives, along with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg, toured the damage in the city’s Waterfront Park.
According to Eric Gibson, Kentucky’s Emergency Management Director, “Water is still very much out in the western part of our state, very high, along with this area along the Ohio River, beginning here in Louisville all the way down to Paducah.”
Kroger Launches Flood Relief Campaign
In the wake of the disaster, Kroger is partnering with the Red Cross to support flooding victims across Kentuckiana. The grocery chain has launched a flood relief campaign in which customers can donate by rounding up their purchase totals at checkout or making direct monetary donations. All funds raised through this initiative will be sent to the Red Cross to support flood relief efforts. The campaign is set to run through May 3.
As recovery efforts continue, communities across Kentucky and southern Indiana are receiving critical support from local and federal agencies. Health officials, emergency services, and organizations like FEMA and the Red Cross are working tirelessly to assist those affected by the historic flooding. While challenges remain, residents are hopeful that, with ongoing support, they can rebuild their homes and lives in the coming weeks and months.
