Governor Andy Beshear provided an update Thursday on the state’s ongoing response to the severe weather that swept through the commonwealth and hit some of our communities very hard on Sunday.
During his Team Kentucky Update, the Governor reported that the storms temporarily knocked out power for hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians, shut down numerous roads and interstates, caused massive damage to many homes and businesses, and spawned several tornados.
click to download audioHe mentioned that several organizations quickly mobilized to provide assistance and, as with every disaster, they are committed to aiding in the recovery process.
click to download audioBeshear also announced the storms claimed the lives of five Kentuckians, and funds will be raised to cover their funeral expenses.
click to download audioAccording to Beshear, twenty-six counties and twelve cities have declared a state of emergency.
click to download audioCurrently, he stated that Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park has been opened for the second time following a natural disaster and is currently sheltering eleven households.
Gov. Beshear said that the Civil Air Patrol is conducting aerial surveys to capture images of the damage in the affected areas, in an effort to secure assistance from FEMA.