Governor will hold press briefing at 12:30 p.m. EST, streamed on Facebook and YouTube 

FRANKFORT, KY - On Feb. 16, 2025 Morning, Gov. Andy Beshear will provide an update on severe weather affecting much of the commonwealth, including flooding, mudslides and snow. He will hold a full press briefing at 12:30 p.m. EST, streamed on Facebook and YouTube.

“Kentucky, we are seeing dangerous and life-threatening conditions across the state, and things are only going to get tougher due to widespread flooding and incoming weather,” Gov. Beshear said. “Please stay alert and check on your neighbors. We will get through this together.”

When to Call 911: If you have an emergency or life-threatening situation, dial 911 for immediate available assistance.

Rapid Needs Assessment: If you have immediate needs, but that are not life-threatening, please complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form or call 502-607-6665. These needs include: power is out or inconsistent; no heat or very little heat; individuals with medical needs or disabilities; no food or unable to cook; no or very little drinking water; unable to leave house due to weather and no transportation; phone issues; unable to leave vehicle; checking on a loved one; and more.

Emergency Prescription Refills: Gov. Beshear signed an executive order allowing Kentucky pharmacists to dispense emergency 30-day refills for any non-controlled medication.

FEMA On-Site: FEMA has deployed and will arrive today to support. FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer is Jeremy Slinker, who previously served as Director of Kentucky Emergency Management and led the commonwealth through the Western Kentucky tornadoes of 2021 and the Eastern Kentucky floods of 2022.

Shelter Areas: Kentucky State Parks have opened to receive displaced Kentuckians.

Safety Tips:

• Watch your step. Floodwaters often hide sharp and dangerous debris, like broken glass and metal. Floodwater can also be contaminated with oil, gasoline or sewage.
• Wear the appropriate protective clothing and gear such as boots, gloves and safety glasses when moving debris.
• Stay away from electrical utility equipment after a storm, or if it is wet, to prevent being electrocuted. Report any utility issues to your local utility company.
• Flooded homes are hazards. Get a professional to check for loose wires, mold and hidden damage before re-entering.
• Use generators or other gas-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.
• Never drive into a road covered with flowing water. One foot of flowing water can sweep a car off the road; two feet will carry away an SUV or pickup. Even six inches of water can knock you off your feet. Never walk or drive through swift water. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
• Respect barricades and posted signage. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around. You’re not only putting your own life at risk, but also the lives of first responders.
• If you encounter a dark traffic signal, treat it as a four-way stop.

See the Governor’s Feb. 14 press release on action taken ahead of the severe weather event here.

Drivers are urged to check traffic conditions before traveling at GoKy.ky.gov.

For additional preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.