Staff Report
President Bob Jackson joined Gov. Andy Beshear and local government officials on Tuesday, March 2, on an aerial tour of the damage in Calloway County caused by recent flooding.
Jackson said he toured the county via helicopter with Beshear, County Judge-Executive Kenny Imes and Mayor Bob Rogers.
“We saw a great deal of damage to roads, bridges, homes, other property, including small businesses throughout Calloway County,” Jackson said. “Several parts of our region and state also experienced extensive damage.”
Imes declared a state of emergency for Calloway County on Sunday, Feb. 28, immediately following the record-breaking rainfall.
Between 4 and 6 inches of rain fell in Murray, according to the National Weather Service in Paducah’s Facebook page.
Jackson said Murray State did experience some flood damage to Stewart Stadium, the West Farm and minor damage to other buildings.
“We are compiling all information now in order to submit a FEMA claim for reimbursement of this damage since Gov. Beshear and Judge Imes declared a state of emergency,” Jackson said.
Jackson said they toured campus and the West Farm in a low flyover.
“We greatly appreciate Gov. Beshear visiting Calloway County to review this damage and in assisting us with reimbursement of these costs,” Jackson said.
Following his visit to Calloway County, Beshear provided an update on the state’s emergency response during his daily press briefing.
“What we have seen is some of the worst rain in Western Kentucky in parts of Calloway County to parts of cities underwater in Eastern Kentucky,” Beshear said. “So many of our people are struggling right now.”
Beshear assured residents the proper action is being taken by multiple agencies to ensure everything that can be done is being done to provide safety and relief to anyone affected by the devastating flood.
“We have the National Guard out in force working with numerous local officials who are providing great leadership,” Beshear said.
The News provided readers with updates throughout the day on Sunday, including live video from the Bee Creek area on 4th Street and the Station 74 apartment complex on North 16th Street. The media company Storyful asked to use The News’ video of the flooding. The video was then shared with media outlets throughout the country, even airing on ABC News and Yahoo! News.
Visit The News’ Facebook page to see videos and pictures from the recent flooding as well as Judge Imes’ declaration.
