Kentucky is facing severe floods that have already claimed lives. Heavy rain caused rivers to overflow, submerging homes, roads, and vehicles. At least two people have died, and emergency workers are searching for a missing person. The state is in crisis as floodwaters continue to rise.
Deaths and Damage Across the State
Authorities found a 73-year-old man dead in floodwaters in Clay County. In Hart County, officials confirmed the death of a youth. Another person is missing, and search efforts are ongoing. Emergency teams are working around the clock to rescue stranded residents.
Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency before the storm hit. He warned that flash floods could be deadly. President Joe Biden approved a federal disaster request to help affected areas. Emergency shelters have opened in Pike County and Prestonsburg for people forced from their homes. The Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson had to close its emergency department. Patients were moved to nearby hospitals. Officials said the river could crest nearly 14 feet above flood stage.
Winter Storms Bring Freezing Cold and Heavy Snow
While Kentucky struggles with floods, other states are dealing with extreme cold and snow. The northern plains are experiencing brutal temperatures. In some areas near the Canadian border, temperatures have dropped to minus 30°F. Wind chills have made it feel as cold as minus 50°F in North Dakota and Minnesota.
Meteorologists said this is the tenth polar vortex event this season. Arctic air is spreading deep into the U.S., making conditions even worse. Snow has covered parts of New England and upstate New York. Some areas could get over a foot of snow. Winds up to 60 mph have created whiteout conditions. Travel has become nearly impossible in these areas. Iowa, Wisconsin, and Michigan have also received up to four inches of snow. Authorities issued winter weather advisories for those regions.
Emergency Efforts in Multiple States
In Denver, temperatures have dropped to 14°F. Officials have opened shelters for homeless residents. In Florida and Georgia, severe storms have led to tornado warnings. Authorities have told residents to stay inside and avoid unnecessary travel.
California has also been hit by extreme weather. A storm dumped six feet of snow in the Sierra Nevada. An avalanche at Mammoth Mountain injured a ski patrol worker. Officials warn that more avalanches are possible. In wildfire-scorched areas, the risk of mudslides remains high. Experts say the ground is too weak to hold back water and debris.
Widespread Disruptions Across the U.S.
The severe weather has affected millions of Americans. Power outages have been reported in multiple states. Road closures have made travel dangerous. Airports have canceled or delayed hundreds of flights.
Authorities in affected states are urging people to prepare for more bad weather. They recommend stocking up on food, water, and emergency supplies. Officials also warn that roads could be icy and dangerous. If conditions worsen, more areas could face evacuation orders.
A Nation on High Alert
Kentucky residents are bracing for more rain. Rivers are still rising, and the flood threat is not over. The state is working with federal agencies to bring aid to affected areas. Rescue teams remain on high alert, ready to assist those in need.
The storms continue to sweep across the country. People in the northern states must prepare for extreme cold. Snow and ice will make travel hazardous. In the south, tornadoes and heavy rain could cause further damage.
This winter has been one of the most challenging in years. With flooding, snow, and freezing temperatures, many Americans are struggling. Officials say the best way to stay safe is to follow weather updates and prepare for emergencies.
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