This story was updated at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 30.
Residents in areas of eastern Kentucky are living through one of the worst flooding events in Kentucky history.
The full extent of the devastation will take weeks to catalog, but emergency officials expect extensive property damage and loss of life. As of mid-day on Saturday, 25 people are confirmed dead and thousands are still without power, water, gas and other services.
Appalshop, a nonprofit media organization in Whitesburg and Ohio Valley Resource partner,has compiled a list of resources for people directly impacted by the storms who are seeking shelter, supplies or help finding loved ones.
At this point in the crisis, state officials are urging people who do not live in the area and are not emergency personnel to stay away. Officials say search and rescue teams may need volunteers and to reach out to them directly. Perry County says rescue volunteers should contact Jerry Stacy at 606-216-6621 and give details about your location and abilities.
For those who are local only, officials in Perry County have a volunteer formthat can be completed. Those volunteers may be needed to transport supplies and people, distribute food and clothing and document flood damage.
Here is a map of where you can find shelters, donation drop off points, pet care and other resources in the region:
Be aware that there are still many blocked or flooded roads and washed out bridges in the region.
Those looking for someone who is missing in Breathitt, Knott, Letcher or Perry counties are encouraged to call Kentucky State Police Post 13 at 606-435-6069 instead of 911.
At this point in the recovery process, state officials recommend donating water and cleaning supplies and avoid donating clothing.
Several organizations are asking for clothing and items for infants such as baby food and diapers. If you donate food, ensure it is non-perishable or canned.
Gov. Beshear announced the creation of the state-managedTeam Kentucky Flood Relief Fund for people to make monetary donations in the wake of the storms. The initiative issimilar to a fund set up after massive tornadoes tore through western Kentucky late last year.
The National Weather Service canceled the flash flood watch for the region on Friday morning. Eastern Kentuckians will likely get a respite from the rain this weekend, but storms could return on Monday.
Hereβs ways to donate money:
Team Kentucky Flood Relief Fund State-Managed Relief Fund
Appalachian Crisis Aid Fund Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky
American Red Cross (You can also call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.)
Kentucky Sports Radio and the Kentucky Chamber fundraiser
Save the Children Emergency Fund
UKY Student Basic Needs and Persistence Fund (for college students affected by flooding)
GoFundMe (These are verified pages only. Use your best judgment when contributing to online fundraisers.)
