Several towns across the southern and midwestern United States are now underwater after nearly a week of relentless rain and severe storms. Rising rivers have flooded homes and streets, forcing evacuations from Texas to Ohio. At least 18 people have died since the storms began last Wednesday.
In Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas, rivers have reached near-record levels. Emergency crews are working around the clock to rescue trapped residents, cut off power in high-risk areas, and provide shelter for those displaced by the floodwaters.
Kentucky River Near Record Levels
Frankfort, the capital of Kentucky, is one of the hardest-hit areas. The Kentucky River is expected to rise above 49 feet, close to the city’s flood wall limit of 51 feet. Local officials have already shut down power and gas lines to prevent accidents.
Wendy Quire, manager of The Brown Barrel restaurant in downtown Frankfort, said, “As long as I’ve been alive — and I’m 52 — this is the worst I’ve ever seen it. The rain just won’t stop.”
Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson confirmed emergency efforts were underway, including road closures and business shutdowns. “We are doing everything we can to keep people safe,” he said.
Deadly Toll Across the Region
So far, 18 people have died in the floods and storms. Tennessee reported 10 deaths, including children. A 9-year-old boy drowned in Kentucky while walking to his school bus. In Arkansas, a 5-year-old was killed when a tree crashed onto his family’s home.
A young volunteer firefighter in Missouri died in a crash while trying to reach storm victims. Many cities are still recovering, and more flooding is expected.
“This flooding is an act of God,” said Kevin Gordon, a hotel clerk in downtown Frankfort. The hotel is offering discounted rooms for residents displaced by the floods.
National Weather Service Issues Warnings
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued multiple flood warnings across states including Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Missouri. Forecasters say dozens of rivers may hit “major flood stage,” meaning water could damage roads, homes, and bridges.
Warm temperatures, high winds, and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico are fueling the storms. On Saturday, over 5 inches of rain fell in Jonesboro, Arkansas — a new April record. Memphis saw 14 inches of rainfall in just four days.
Small Towns Face Big Losses
In Rives, Tennessee — a town of about 200 people — nearly every home is underwater. The Obion River has overflowed, submerging streets and houses.
Domanic Scott traveled to Rives to check on his father. “It’s the first house we’ve ever paid off,” he said. “Insurance companies won’t cover flood damage here. If we lose it, we’re left with nothing.”
In nearby Dyersburg, a shelter set up near a school has become a safe haven for dozens of people. Many fled their homes with only essentials in hand.
“I brought my meds, my electronics, and a folding chair,” said 77-year-old George Manns. “I don’t leave them in my apartment in case it’s destroyed.”
Tennessee Towns Hit Twice
Some areas in Tennessee were already reeling from tornado damage last week. Now, they face more destruction as flooding worsens. Emergency responders are setting up temporary shelters and delivering food, water, and medical supplies to those affected.
For some, leaving meant saving more than essentials. In Frankfort, Bill Jones escaped by boat, taking boxes of bourbon with him as floodwaters reached his window sills.
Historic Context and Understaffed Forecasting
This level of flooding hasn’t been seen in decades. In Falmouth and Butler, two towns along Kentucky’s Licking River, emergency evacuations are underway. The river last reached 50 feet in 1997, killing five people and destroying 1,000 homes.
Experts warn that the ability to respond has been weakened. Cuts made during the Trump administration left many NWS forecast offices understaffed, with vacancy rates around 20%.
What’s Next?
The storms show no sign of slowing. Officials urge residents in flood-prone areas to prepare for more rain, follow evacuation orders, and avoid driving through flooded roads.
“This is a dangerous situation,” said an NWS spokesperson. “Stay informed and stay safe.”
