The death toll in eastern Kentucky is now officially at 25 people. This includes old and young alike, as four young children all siblings are among the dead. According to official reports and the Governor, there are many, many more unaccounted for and feared lost in a nightmare that may be just beginning for many.
Many of the areas in eastern Kentucky are some of the poorest regions in the country. Many are aging, bed ridden, on oxygen, in wheelchairs, or have other handicaps or special health needs. The vans that take them to the doctors, the clinics that see them, and the drug stores that have their necessary medicine, oxygen or other needs were not spared from the raging flood waters.
After the waters have receded, many new issues are now facing the region. Medical supplies, equipment, tetanus and other needed shots are just the tip of the iceberg of the medical shortages. While rescues still work the area trying to provide help and necessities to thousands, Police and Sheriff’s agencies have now reported looting in the vulnerable areas, and some have imposed curfews tonight.
There are now estimated over 18,000 without power, as many or more without water service, and cell service remains out for much of the area. Meaning there are many who cannot signal for help.
The floodwaters of this particular storm were so raging and rose so quickly, it caused a flood event like never seen before. Perry County received nearly a foot of water in the storm, and that water soon made it way down stream to other areas. At least 28 roads were washed out or blocked due to flooding or mudslides.
As of Saturday night, more flood watches have been issued for much of the same region.
