KENTUCKY GOVERNOR PROVIDES CRITICAL UPDATE ON DEADLY STORM DAMAGE

LONDON, Ky. – In the wake of catastrophic tornadoes that struck South Central Kentucky over the weekend, Governor Andy Beshear visited Laurel County and delivered a heartfelt update to the public on Tuesday.

“We will be there for our people until every home and every life is rebuilt,” said Gov. Beshear. “We will get through this together.”

The Governor confirmed that 19 Kentuckians have lost their lives in the aftermath of the May 16–17 storm system. The victims include 17 in Laurel County, one in Pulaski County, and one in Russell County. Eight survivors remain hospitalized at the University of Kentucky Hospital, with two in critical condition.

Mandatory Evacuations Ahead of New Storm Threat

With another round of severe storms expected between 2–11 PM EDT today, the Governor has issued evacuation orders for hardest-hit areas of London, Kentucky. Strong winds and existing debris pose a dangerous threat to public safety.

Shelters have been activated at:

Laurel County Sheriff's Office – 203 S. Broad St., London

West London Baptist Church – 360 Parker Rd., London

Recovery and Emergency Measures

As of Tuesday morning:

Power outages have dropped from 172,000 to approximately 4,628 customers

Water service disruptions include 60 customers without water and 2,108 under boil water advisories

Gov. Beshear outlined additional measures:

State of emergency remains in effect

30-day emergency refills authorized for non-controlled prescriptions

Price gouging laws enacted to prevent exploitation during cleanup

The state has officially requested FEMA aid for both Individual and Public Assistance

WEATHER ALERT

Kentuckians are strongly encouraged to stay off roads and avoid damaged zones during the next storm wave. Flying debris and unstable structures remain a major hazard.

Forecast: 2–11 PM EDT Severe thunderstorms, high winds, tornado risk Debris field dangers remain

RAPID ASSISTANCE

If you are experiencing non-life-threatening emergency needs, please call:

502-607-6665or complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form

Eligible concerns include:

Loss of power or water

Mobility, disability, or health-related barriers

Inability to cook, evacuate, or contact loved ones

Kentucky Storm Disaster Update

19 Confirmed Deaths

Widespread Tornado Damage

New Storms Tonight – Evacuations Ordered

Shelters in London, KY More at TNWWeather.com