Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear says at least eight people have died due to significant flooding in eastern Kentucky. “We’re gonna end up with double-digit deaths. Right now, I believe we can confirm at least eight,” Beshear said in an interview with CNN affiliate WLEX Thursday evening.
Beshear told WLEX that he does not have a firm total on the number of people missing at this time because rescue crews are still working to access certain areas where water is flowing.
“Tonight, we need your continued prayers for the people of Eastern Kentucky. This is an ongoing natural disaster, with more rain expected tonight that could worsen the situation. The death toll has heartbreakingly risen to 8 Kentuckians lost,” Beshear said in a tweet Thursday.
In a video statement, Beshear called the flooding in Eastern Kentucky “historic,” adding that 20 to 30 people have been air rescued thanks to the National Guard, according to a statement.
“Our folks on the ground from fish and wildlife to National Guard to state police to local emergency management. They are fighting so hard to reach people, but this is so widespread,” the governor told WLEX. Earlier Thursday, Beshear announced at least three people had died from flooding in eastern Kentucky. READ MORE
