Lexington declares state of emergency as more storms expected over the weekend
Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton declared a state of emergency Friday amid severe weather across the commonwealth.
The declaration allows Fayette County officials to provide and coordinate aid with other counties throughout the state and apply for federal aid if needed.
Kentucky began receiving heavy rain Wednesday evening, and it has rarely let up since then. And more is on the way — Fayette County could see an additional 6 inches before the end of the weekend.
The inclement weather began Wednesday night, as storms moved into Western Kentucky and swept across the state. At least two tornadoes were confirmed — one in McCracken County late Wednesday and one in Louisville early Thursday.
Fayette County had a tornado warning early Thursday, but no tornadoes touched down.
Heavy rain has buffeted much of the state since then, and it’s expected to resume Friday night. A 9-year-old Frankfort boy died Friday morning after being swept away by floodwaters while walking to a school bus stop.
Western Kentucky is expected to be hit especially hard by rain and flooding this weekend.
Lexington’s state of emergency will last through 8 a.m. Monday.
The Lexington Fire Department has already dispatched, sending seven swift water rescue certified firefighters and two boats to Bowling Green, and a mobile ambulance bus with three specialized firefighter-paramedics to Butler to help evacuate a nursing home.
This story was originally published April 4, 2025 at 5:42 PM.