Wednesday —– 9:30am
Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency ahead of the first round of severe storms that are expected to last for four days. The storm is especially concerning for far Western Kentucky, which is going to see potentially historic amounts of rain, and strong winds with the possibility of tornadoes are in the forecast for much of Kentucky.
In a video message, the Governor said far Western Kentucky is facing a severe weather risk at a Level 5, which means there could be widespread severe storms that are intense and long-lived. Across the state there are concerns about tornadoes, hail, flooding and strong winds. The Governor is urging all Kentuckians to find a safe place to stay tonight.
“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.”
The Governor is taking action by activating the Kentucky Emergency Operations Center and units of the Kentucky National Guard to stand ready to respond. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials and crews are also on alert, and local emergency management leaders are working to keep Kentuckians everywhere informed.
Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray has signed an official order to temporarily suspend certain restrictions on commercial motor carriers that will be engaged in debris removal, power restoration, or supplying gasoline, propane, and diesel fuels to areas affected by the forecasted torrential rains and flooding.
“Every second matters when lives are on the line,” Secretary Gray said. “This order ensures we can act immediately to deliver support where it’s needed most.”
The order is effective as of April 2, 2025. It temporarily relieves commercial drivers transporting approved relief supplies from maximum driving times and weigh stations.
To ensure the safety of the traveling public, carriers must comply with safety requirements and have a copy of the order in the truck cab if operating under the authority of the official order.
