How to donate, volunteer to help Somerset tornado victims
SOMERSET, Ky. (FOX 56) — After several days of severe weather and widespread destruction, southern Kentucky is in the clear this morning to continue its cleanup efforts. It's a task that community members said demands time and help.
200 buildings were destroyed here in Pulaski County, and as people start the long road to recovery, officials are calling on their fellow Kentuckians to not let them do it alone.
As the storms first hit, the Somerset-Pulaski County special response team started with initial response and recovery, trying to get to help people and then set up an incident command post. But now the team is calling on the help of the community to collect and distribute supplies to those in need.
Pulaski County officials declare curfew until further notice: 'No exceptions'
Donation organizers said they're looking for anything from cleaning supplies to trash bags to water bottles. Somerset-Pulaski County Special Response Chief Steve Woods says the community has stepped up to serve one another during this devastating time, noting that the help needs to continue further out than a week or two after the tragic tornado.
'We're blessed. The community and volunteers are incredible with the support that we're getting from everybody involved,' said Chief Woods. 'The biggest problem that I see is everybody helps the first couple days. But we need to keep this going for the next few weeks. So, trying to be ready for that.'
City leaders said they are asking for volunteers to help with clean-up efforts. Anyone looking to donate can drop off supplies between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday to Friday, at the Somerset-Pulaski County special response headquarters.
Pulaski County Emergency Management Director Chris Mason says that multiple law enforcement agencies have come in to help from all over the state. He adds that while nothing could have prepared residents for what came through on Friday, a command center was set up at the Pulaski County area technology center to help better the county's response. Mason says it's a crucial resource that will help protect people.
Pulaski County community members offer free services for those in need
'It was pretty devastating. But, I think, in light of some of the stuff I saw around the rest of the state, I think we were pretty blessed,' said Mason. 'Things like this, I think, are going to help us just get that much stronger and be that much more prepared so that as events like this happen, we can, you know, respond even more effectively.'
So far, US 27 is still blocked off to community members, and utility crews are working to get power restored for business owners to assess their damage. Mason also adds that the FEMA process will take time because they are still working on damage from the floods earlier this year.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Hunterdon County makes major advancement in flood control project
Hunterdon County has been awarded an $880,200 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to implement Phase II of its Hazard Mitigation Flood Warning System. The funding was formally accepted by the Board of County Commissioners during its June 3 meeting, ensuring the project is incorporated into the county's 2025 budget. The investment represents a major advancement in the county's ongoing efforts to improve flood preparedness and safeguard residents. "Hunterdon County has faced devastating flooding events that have taken a toll on lives and infrastructure. This FEMA grant enables us to expand our flood warning system, equipping us with real-time alerts that will strengthen emergency response efforts and help reduce future risks,' stated Commissioner Director John E. Lanza. More: FEMA funding will allow Hunterdon County to install floodgates The grant stems from concerns raised by the county's Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management, and was secured through FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Program, in partnership with the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (NJOEM). The project is divided into two phases: Phase I partnered with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to collect and analyze rainfall and flood data from the Neshanic River and other key areas. This data will enhance flood warning systems used by local and county officials to anticipate and prepare for flood-related emergencies. Phase II, supported by this new round of funding, focuses on infrastructure enhancements ― including the installation of floodgate systems at key flood-prone locations. One major installation site includes the intersection of County Route 514 and Reaville Road near the Neshanic River. These gates will be closed during flood conditions to restrict traffic and protect motorists from dangerous floodwaters. 'By integrating USGS stream gauges, rainfall sensors, and real-time hydrometric data, Hunterdon County is taking a proactive stance in flood readiness," Lanza stated. "Phase II will further enhance our capabilities, providing traffic restricting gate systems in areas prone to repetitive flooding over the last two decades. It also lays the groundwork for future public safety and disaster resilience investments.' Brad Wadlow is a staff writer for This article originally appeared on Hunterdon County NJ makes major advancement in flood control project
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Yahoo
FEMA continues sending aid to Kentuckians impacted by April storms
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — FEMA has continued to approve housing and other types of assistance for Kentuckians impacted by April and May's severe weather. FEMA officials say over $22,000,000 has been approved for nearly 3,000 residents impacted by severe storms in April. Over $1,000,000 has been approved for those effected by May's tornadoes. Officials say applicants who register for FEMA assistance by June 23 may be considered for Serious Needs Assistance. Serious Needs Assistance is a one-time payment per household. To see if you are eligible for FEMA assistance, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15 hours ago
- Yahoo
Stay safe with these tips for using a power generator after a hurricane or tropical storm
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Louisiana consumers are buying and using generators across the state to be prepared for a power outage during hurricane season. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), generators are emergency equipment that provide a secondary power source during an electrical failure. Generators can be useful in the event of a natural disaster and there is a power outage. Though it can be useful, generators can also be dangerous. Some generators emit carbon monoxide, which is colorless and odorless but can be fatal for humans and animals. FEMA recommends not using generators indoors or in poorly ventilated areas. Precaution tips include installing a carbon monoxide alarm in your home to prevent toxic buildups. FEMA says to always use heavy-duty extension cords for appliances. Generators use a huge amount of power and if used improperly, can cause injury or power surges to power lines. Fuel for the generator should be stored outdoors. To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and away from rain and wet conditions. When refueling, turn off the generator and allow it to cool down. Fuel spilled on the hot engine parts could ignite a fire. Read the generator's instruction manual to use the recommended fuel type and how much is required. What items should be in hurricane, disaster preparation kit for your family, pets? See here. Costco will let customers shop without crowds (for a price) Where the 'No Kings' anti-Trump military parade protests are planned DOJ calls Newsom legal challenge to National Guard 'crass political stunt' Newsom hits back at DeSantis over offer to send Florida state guard to LA LSU duo named First-Team Freshman All-Americans Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
