After the severe storms that affected different areas of Kentucky, United States, the state was declared a disaster area after the floods that have so far claimed the lives of 16 people.
Said floods were caused by the torrential rains that eastern Kentucky received, since the portions oscillated in the 200 mm of rain from July 27 to July 28 in the morning, overflowing streams, creeks and the ground already saturated by previous storms.
Governor Andy Beshear reported that the storms have left that number of victims, but that the deaths could increase as the hours go by. Because of this, the president of the United States, Joe Biden, indicated that Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Wolfe are risk areas.
In addition to this, Biden ordered federal aid to supplement local efforts in the areas affected by the flooding and mudslides that began on July 26.
It is known that at least 124 people have been displaced and 337 are distributed in 10 shelters. In addition to this, more than 23 thousand homes do not have electricity and the water systems were interrupted.
Beshear pointed out that the central and eastern parts of the state remain under a flood watch, and unfortunately many people would lose their homes.
Damage assessments continue in other areas and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated. We are currently experiencing one of the worst and most devastating flood events in Kentucky history.