Flash flooding kills four in Kentucky as Beshear declares state of emergency

Flash flooding from thunderstorms has killed four people in Kentucky, Gov. Andy Beshear said, as he declared a state of emergency with more rain expected. The National Weather Service kept flash flood warnings in place for parts of Kentucky and Indiana after reports of 4 to 10 inches of rainfall and multiple water rescues.

Kentucky officials reported four deaths after thunderstorms triggered severe flooding. Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency as more rain was forecast. Flash flood warnings covered parts of Kentucky and Indiana on Saturday. The National Weather Service tracked heavy downpours across the region, with further rainfall possible into the evening.

Beshear said on social media that flooding killed three people in Madison County. One person also died in Jackson County. The statement came as emergency crews responded to rising water. Officials warned conditions could worsen as storms continued and waterways stayed high.

Kentucky flooding prompts state of emergency and rescues

"This is a serious flooding event, where teams have already had to conduct multiple water rescues from vehicles and homes across the commonwealth,\" Beshear said in a statement. \"As more heavy rain continues through late tonight, we need folks to remain alert and to avoid driving, especially after dark when there is limited visibility.\"

Beshear’s office said some parts of Kentucky could get up to 7 inches of rain. That estimate covered rainfall expected through the late evening. Emergency managers prepared for additional calls as water levels changed. The National Weather Service continued issuing alerts during periods of intense rain.

Indiana flooding brings flash flood warnings and heavy rainfall totals

In Indiana, the National Weather Service said late Saturday afternoon that some areas of southwestern Indiana had already received 4 to 10 inches. Forecasters said more rain remained possible. Flash flood warnings stayed in place for sections of Indiana and neighbouring Kentucky as storms moved through.

In Bullitt County, northwest of Kentucky and near Louisville, officials took extra precautions. Emergency management teams asked residents along a rural road to evacuate. The request followed a landslide at a dam embankment. Officials said the dam was holding and there was no sign of immediate failure.

The National Weather Service said the Bullitt County area recorded about 3 inches of rain over two days. Authorities continued monitoring local conditions as rainfall totals increased. With warnings still active, state and county officials urged people to stay aware of changing water levels and follow safety guidance.

With inputs from PTI