There are currently several weather alerts in effect in and around Louisville, including a Winter Weather Advisory — be advised that snow is expected through Wednesday, Feb. 19.
The torrential downpours have caused flooding, washouts, and closures across Derby City and the state + have contributed to rock and landslides in eastern and western Kentucky. Here are the latest updates, resources, and ways you can help.
Updates
As of 10:37 a.m. on Feb. 18, the National Water Prediction Service observed the Ohio River at Louisville reached a Flood Stage 28.5 ft, a minor category of flooding where some sections of River Road are closed + right turns onto River Road from the I-64 ramp are prohibited.
LMPD is now operating on Online Reporting Forms for non-injury collisions due to the ongoing rain and snow. If you’re involved in a crash, you’ll need to report it using the Kentucky State Police’s Civilian Collision Report form.
Metro’s Snow Team has applied salt to 110 snow routes (~2,700 two-lane miles) as the rain turned to snow. They will continue working to ensure all major roads are in safe driving condition, according to Metro Public Works Communications Specialist Salvador Melendez.
On Sunday evening, a Louisville Fire and Jefferson County team was deployed to Pikeville, which Gov. Andy Beshear said was probably hit hardest, to help with flooding rescue operations.
The city’s first responders conducted ~30 water rescues Saturday night in Louisville with the help of LMPD River Patrol and Dive Team Swift Water Technicians.
Gov. Andy Beshear’s request for an emergency disaster declaration for the state was approved by President Donald Trump, and federal funding is now available for affected areas. Beshear also announced that representatives from FEMA arrived in Kentucky to begin support efforts. He said the flooding was “one of the worst” events in Kentucky’s history.
Closures
Check WLKY’s list of road closures county-by-county. Major closed thoroughfares in Louisville include:
- River Road from 3rd to 7th Streets
- Indian Hills Trail from River Road to River Bluff
- I-64 West 3rd Street’s off ramp is still open, but there is no right turn
- All entry to Cherokee Park at Willow, Lexington Road, and Eastern Parkway
Pro tip: If flooded roads are barricaded, don’t drive through floodwater.
Some local businesses, like Captain’s Quarters and Headliners Music Hall, are temporarily closed. Check the social media pages of individual businesses in the area before you visit.
How to help
Louisville Metro’s Homeless Services Division Operation White Flag is in place in preparation for the expected cold temperatures in the coming days. Several warming centers are open too. So if you know or see someone in need of these services, direct them to one of four locations, including Wayside Christian Mission + Salvation Army.
Gov. Andy Beshear asked “Kentuckians and our neighbors to do what we do best — help each other in times of need.” The Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund is now accepting donations to help with recovery efforts from the storm.
Whirling Tiger will host a flood relief benefit concert on Thursday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m., featuring performances by acts like Ryan Anderson and Kathryn Brooks. The recommended donation amount is $20 — all proceeds from donations and the silent auction will go towards relief efforts.
If you’re shopping for a cause, two regional clothing brands are donating the proceeds of t-shirt sales to support recovery work long after the floodwaters fade.
- New Frontier is donating proceeds from sales of its Kentucky Strong apparel to provide flood victims with clothing and resources.
- The Kentucky Shop is donating 100% of sales from the “Y’all be sure to check on your Kentucky friends” t-shirt to the Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund.
The Kentucky Community and Technical College system has a relief fund in place for three schools impacted by the flooding in eastern Kentucky. Donations go to help support students + their families.
Resources
MSD has a list of tips and resources for what to do before and after a flood.
Check out Kentucky’s flood resources, which are currently being updated with information on the severe weather.
Residents with immediate needs can fill out a Rapid Needs Assessment Form online or call 502-607-6665 for assistance.
