ACH
By Capt. Andi Hahn/Public Affairs Office
Photos by Spc. Michelle Waters/133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
[caption id="attachment_1313" align="alignleft" width="247" caption="Governor Steve Beshear points out the counties declared states of emergency on a map at a press conference held at the Emergency Operations Center May 3 in Frankfort, Ky."]
FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 3, 2010)--Governor Steve Beshear confirmed today at the Commonwealth Emergency Operations Center (CEOC) the issuance of an executive order, effective May 1, 2010 declaring a state of emergency in response to the severe storms and flooding that hit the Commonwealth over the weekend.
"The safety of our citizens is my first priority," said Beshear. "That is why I urge individuals who encounter high waters to use extreme caution and avoid unnecessary contact with flood waters if at all possible. Our thoughts are especially with those who lost loved ones in the tragic deaths that have been attributed to the weekend's storms."
Beshear has turned to the Kentucky National Guard to provide support to the troubled counties. Currently there are 37 Soldiers and 14 vehicles from the 1-623rd Field Artillery Battalion providing assistance in Metcalfe and Monroe County. Future missions include damage assessment teams deploying to Casey County by the end of today.
"The damage is wide-spread," Beshear said. "We will continue to do whatever is necessary to help you survive the impact of the storms."
The Governor spoke with President Barack Obama earlier today about the storms that hit the state. The President was quick to offer whatever assistance is needed and said his thoughts and prayers are with the people of Kentucky.
[caption id="attachment_1315" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Brig. Gen. John W. Heltzel, Director of Emergency Management and Deputy Commander for Joint Forces Headquarters, KYNG, speaks about the damage around the Commonwealth from the weekend storms at a press conference at the Emergency Operations Center in Frankfort, Ky."]
There are currently 13 shelters open throughout the state to help provide aid to those affected by the storms and floods.
For information and safety tips, please visit KyEM's Web site at www.kyem.ky.gov.