HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A State of Emergency has been declared for Hopkinsville and Christian County as floodwaters overtake roads and communities. Friday afternoon, the City of Hopkinsville held a public press conference to discuss the impact on recent flooding.
“Please be aware, the water is still going to be rising,” said Mayor J.R. Knight during the press conference. He confirmed that extensive flooding occurred around Ninth and Main Street as the South Fork Little River spilled on the roads. He encouraged residents to not attempt to drive downtown or around any flood barricades.
Boats have been deployed to rescue people around the city, according to Randy Graham with Christian County Emergency Management, and dozens of roads have been affected. He warned that although the skies have temporarily cleared, people should brace for more incoming weather and several more inches of rain.
| RELATED STORY: South Fork Little River surpasses flood stage, Flash Flood Warning continues
Rescue missions
“This flood that we are in is a potentially life-threatening flood”, said Graham. “This is more of a marathon than a sprint, it’s going to take a little while.”
Fire Chief Steve Futrell offered more details about the rescues, adding that emergency crews have been running nonstop to keep up, with HPD, CCSO and other emergency agencies working alongside them. So far, they have responded to over 20 emergency calls and assisted on 12 home rescues. No significant injuries have been reported.
In addition to people being removed from homes via boat, dozens of pets have also been saved due to rescue efforts. Futrell said that floodwaters rose waist deep in the Pet Lodge in Hopkinsville, which was housing 47 pets. After collaborating with Christian County Animal Control and working for several hours, the animals were removed and placed in alternate housing. One dog was unable to be saved and died.
Jail braces for floodwaters
Discussions about the position of the Christian County Jail in relation to the floodwaters was discussed by Judge Executive Jerry Gilliam and Jailer Adam Smith. Due to its location, it is at risk for flooding with unsecured portions of the jail already seeing water come in.
With over 500 inmates currently housed at the jail, Smith emphasized that there are already plans in place in case a weather evacuation is necessary. For safety, he was unable to share details about what that plan would be, but he did disclose that they have already been in contact with other counties.
While Smith said the jail currently has no floodwater inside of it, they have also received a large number of sandbags to prevent rain from coming in.
| RELATED STORY: Pennyrile Parkway blocked, dozens of roads affected by high water
Emergency shelter
Officials shared that a shelter is being established at Saint John’s Methodist Church on 2808 South Virginia Street. This will be available for anyone who does not feel safe in their homes, or who have already been rescued or evacuated. They will have the capacity to hold about 100 people, and more shelters will be established as needed.
Emergency housing assistance will also be available for storm and flood victims through United Way Kentucky and Airbnb. They have partnered to prove free temporary housing for up to ten days. People 18 or older can call 211 to get connected with assistance.
Christian County Emergency Management is making their way to Oak Grove to encourage affected neighborhoods to evacuate before additional rain comes in. Oak Grove Mayor Jackie Oliver said the city as a whole is in good shape, except for a few areas that frequently flood.
Although it is too early to determine the overall impact of the flooding, officials are anticipating they will fall within the threshold to receive federal aid. “I would like to say thank you to all my team for what they have done,” said Knight to conclude the press conference. “They will keep pushing forward just like they always do.”