Flash flooding in Kentucky leaves at least four dead

At least four people have died after heavy rainfall triggered flash flooding across the US state of Kentucky, with emergency crews continuing search and rescue operations on June 28.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said some areas received up to 8 inches (20 centimetres) of rain, leading to widespread flooding, more than 60 rescues and evacuations, and significant damage, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

“While we are still in the search-and-rescue phase, we are also working quickly to survey damage to submit a request for federal assistance,” Beshear said on June 28. “People have lost their homes and so much more, and this type of support will be essential as we work to recover and rebuild together.”

Beshear declared a state of emergency on June 27 and urged residents to avoid traveling after dark, following reports that a driver was swept away and killed by floodwaters.

In Madison County, three adults were confirmed dead, according to County Coroner Jimmy Cornelison. Their identities have not been released.

Cornelison said one victim was a man killed in a weather-related vehicle accident, while the other two — a man and a woman — died in a flooded basement. All three victims were between 40 and 59 years old.

Authorities said assessments of the damage are ongoing as officials prepare to request additional federal support for recovery efforts.

By Sabina Mammadli