36 people trapped by high water in Kentucky rescued after seven-hour effort

In a seven-hour effort ending Sunday, the Sand Gap Fire Department rescued 36 people stranded by high water, department officials said.

Crews were dispatched to the Rock Lick area in Jackson County after reports that more than a dozen people, including several children, were stranded due to high water, Sand Gap fire department officials said in a Facebook post.

Jackson County EMS officials told the Herald-Leader the call for help went out about 9:30 p.m. Saturday and the rescue effort was completed at 3:50 a.m. Sunday.

“Upon arrival, Sand Gap Fire crews encountered extremely rough terrain while attempting to reach the group,“ the fire department post said. “First responders utilized personal side-by-side (vehicles) as far as possible before continuing on foot for approximately a mile and a half to make contact with the stranded individuals who had called 911.”

During the search for the original group, firefighters unexpectedly discovered another group of people who were also stranded and had no way to contact emergency services for help.

“The operation ended with everyone involved safe and accounted for,” the post said.

Thirty-two adults and four minors, including two toddlers, were rescued in total.

Officials said the incident should raise awareness about the dangers of rising water and rapidly changing weather conditions.

“Please pay close attention to weather forecasts and water levels, as situations can quickly become dangerous,” the post said.

The National Weather Service was forecasting a chance of rain and thunderstorms throughout the rest of the week.