Homeland security secretary joins Gov. Beshear to survey aftermath of deadly Kentucky flooding
FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — The secretary of homeland security is set to join Gov. Andy Beshear to address the Commonwealth as Kentuckians deal with the aftermath of deadly, widespread flooding.
The trip follows President Donald Trump's major disaster declaration, paving the way for residents to receive federal assistance as they begin the recovery process.
Beshear visited with flood-affected Kentuckians in Perry and Knott counties on Wednesday alongside senior advisor Rocky Adkins. Later, Beshear will be joined by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to survey the damage left behind by floodwaters that took 23 lives.
'We're in Eastern Kentucky today to make sure that we are helping our friends and neighbors recover from this flooding,' Gov. Beshear said. 'We are getting the word out to the folks in need on how to apply for assistance and making sure they know we're going to be there for them every step of the way as they recover.'
How to help 2025 Kentucky flooding victims
Kentucky State Parks are sheltering 284 people affected by the floods across six state parks. The governor said more rooms are open and available if needed.
Although floodwaters have lowered, Kentucky is still seeing the effects. According to the governor's office, 66 state highways are closed, and 11 closures were due to mudslides and rockslides.
'High water is still affecting travel, primarily in Western and Southern Kentucky,' the governor's office said.
It's estimated that over 200 state highways have been damaged, many being reduced to one lane. Closures and traffic conditions are available online here.
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Homeland security secretary joins Gov. Beshear to survey aftermath of deadly Kentucky flooding
'Kentucky, we may get knocked down, but we always get back up. The devastation from flooding is widespread, but we're already making progress,' Beshear said. 'We will rebuild together.'
You can watch the governor's briefing live here.
Local governments, eligible nonprofits, and affected individuals in 11 Kentucky counties will qualify for federal assistance through FEMA. The governor noted that additional designations and counties may be eligible at a later date following damage surveys.
Those affected can apply for FEMA assistance here.
Additionally, on Tuesday the U.S. Small Business Administration approved disaster loans for 22 counties, including:
Bell
Breathitt
Clay
Estill
Floyd
Harlan
Jackson
Johnson
Knott
Knox
Lawrence
Lee
Leslie
Letcher
Magoffin
Martin
Owsley
Perry
Pike
Powell
Wolfe
Applications for disaster loans can be submitted here.
Many Kentuckians in flooded areas have been left without housing, the governor said that this is an issue that 'can't wait.' Flood survivors are encouraged to click here for more information on housing assistance.
Shelter is also available for those in need at Kentucky State Parks.
Read more of the latest Kentucky news
The governor has launched the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund.
As of Wednesday morning, $412,294 has been raised, per the governor's office.
'These dollars will first help pay for each victim's funeral,' the governor's office said.
Beshear also urges Kentuckians to donate blood if they're able.
Click here for more information on flood relief.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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