HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – With a high risk of severe weather in the area and the potential for tornados and ongoing flooding, city and county officials are preparing for storms in an attempt to keep residents safe.

Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency since the storm is especially concerning for far Western Kentucky, “Tornadoes are expected, and I know that’s tough to hear. And we are most concerned about the area of Western Kentucky that has gotten hit far too much, as well as a wider area of Western Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said. “Remember, these can be strong tornadoes, EF-2 and greater. We’re really concerned about people’s safety, especially in the overnight, because when storms or tornadoes hit while people are asleep, that’s sadly when we’ve lost the most people. So, everybody out there, be really careful.”

Hopkinsville Public Works Director Mike Perry said his crew has been working on clearing storm grates and checking drainage structures to mitigate as much flooding as possible. Consistent rain has already saturated the ground, resulting in any additional water to run off immediately to storm drains and low areas, which may be flooded with the ten inches of rain that is possible.

“The main concern is when the streams and river levels start to rise and rainwater will start to back up and release of the water is much slower,” said Perry. Christian County Judge Executive Jerry Gilliam also announced that the Huffman Mill Road bridge will be closed as they clear debris to mitigate the flood risk.

|RELATED STORY: Severe weather, tornado risk increases for Christian County ahead of ‘historic’ flooding

The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is recommending that people prepare an emergency kit ahead of storms and clear their gutters and drains to try and prevent flooding. They are also encouraging residents to secure outdoor items, plan for power outages, and charge electronic devices. After the rain concludes, drivers should avoid driving through floodwaters and check for any structural damage.

Storm shelters

Know of any additional storm shelters opening? Email information to news@christiancountynow.com.

First Baptist Church: Volunteers will be on site at the church to open the basement as a storm shelter, located at 1400 South Main Street. This will be available starting at 4 p.m., people are being instructed to enter at the corner of 16th Street and Main Street. Pets are not permitted, and smoking/vaping is not allowed.

Oak Grove Community Center: Although this building is not an official storm shelter, it is the safest location the city of Oak Grove can offer for those who do not feel safe in their homes during the storm. Their location at 1705 Thompsonville Lane will be open today at 4 p.m., residents can bring any supplies or items they may need, pets that are not service animals are not permitted.

Crofton Severe Weather Safe Room: Able to accommodate up to 500 people, this shelter at 13511 North Old Madisonville Road will be opening at 1 p.m. Service animals are welcome in the facility. People are encouraged to bring comfort items such as blankets and ways to entertain themselves, along with phone chargers and food.

Westview Assembly of God: The church will be open as a shelter to the public starting at 4 p.m. until the threat passes at 400 Pyle Lane in Hopkinsville. People who are planning to attend should bring emergency items like blankets, flashlights, and weather radios. Pets in a kennel can come along and will be placed in a separate room. Those attending must text 270-886-4885 and let them know they are coming.

|GET WEATHER ALERTS: Sign up for our free Christian County Now app