Beshear warns of dangerous heat as Kentucky continues flood recovery

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

KENTUCKY (KBSI) – Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear is urging residents to take precautions as dangerous heat settles over the commonwealth while recovery efforts continue following the weekend’s deadly flooding.

During an update Tuesday, Beshear said heat index values are expected to exceed 100 degrees in parts of the state, prompting Team Kentucky to open cooling centers in affected communities. He encouraged residents to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, remain in air-conditioned spaces when possible, bring pets indoors and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

The governor also reminded residents to use caution while cleaning up flood debris, noting that the combination of extreme heat and hazardous conditions increases the risk of injury. Ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, he warned boaters to be especially careful, saying waterways such as Dale Hollow Lake contain significant debris left behind by flooding.

The death toll from the flooding remains at four, according to the governor.

Kentucky has launched an unmet needs survey and damage reporting tool to help identify residents in need of assistance as emergency management teams continue assessing damage. The information will support the state’s request for federal Public Assistance and Individual Assistance programs.

Beshear said residents who need non-emergency assistance should call the State Warning Point at 1-800-255-2587 and asked Kentuckians to reserve 911 for emergencies only.

A statewide emergency remains in effect. Twenty-six cities and counties have declared local states of emergency, and Beshear has signed an executive order allowing pharmacies in affected areas to provide emergency prescription refills. The governor also activated Kentucky’s price-gouging protections, allowing consumers to report excessive price increases to the Office of the Attorney General during the emergency.

Motorists are encouraged to check current road conditions before traveling, as road closures remain in place across parts of the state.