FLOYD COUNTY, Ky. (WMDJ) – Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency as a flood watch is in effect for early Saturday, Feb. 15, through midday Sunday, Feb. 16. Another 2 to 5 inches of rainfall is expected, and, combined with previous rainfall over the past several days, will likely result in flooding across the state.
Floyd County Judge Executive Robbie Williams has also declared a local state of emergency in preparation of the storm.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service say the storm track has shifted further northwest, leading to lower confidence in forecast rainfall totals with the prediction of moderate risk for excessive rainfall downgraded to a slight risk over much of southeast Kentucky.
Widespread rainfall amounts from 2 to 4 inches are forecast, with locally higher amounts possible. Given the already saturated soils, flash flooding, areal flooding, and extensive flooding of rivers/creeks/streams are all possible.
Specifically, Floyd County should expect at least 1.6 to possibly 3 inches of rainfall on Saturday.
In Prestonsburg, the Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River is expected to crest at 34.60 ft. on Monday, February 17th. Minor flood stage for the Levisa is 40 ft.
In Paintsville, the river is predicted to crest at 38.20 ft, which is moderate flood stage, meaning water would be expected enter houses along Bridge Steet, Frank Street, and Euclid Avenue. Also, KY Route 40 underpass would be closed. If reached, it would be the highest recorded crest level in Paintsville since 2021, when the river crest at 39.72 ft.
A Flood Watch is in effect from 4AM EST Saturday through 10PM EST Sunday due to the potential for high-impact flooding.
