Recovering from the Floods in Kentucky

Our hearts are with the communities affected by the devastating floods in Kentucky. As a result of the heavy rains, quickly followed by below freezing temperatures and snow, at least 22 lives were lost across the commonwealth. 

We understand that facing such destruction can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in this journey. Across the state, countless organizations, emergency services, and local communities are offering help, hope, and resources to those in need. In this guide, we’ve compiled essential information to support you during the recovery process — from financial aid and emergency services to the compassionate organizations providing direct assistance.

1. Temporary housing options

If you’ve been displaced by the flooding in Kentucky, your best first option is to stay with family or friends if possible. This provides a familiar and supportive environment, reducing stress during an already difficult time and gives you more flexibility to focus on recovery and long-term housing solutions.

If staying with loved ones isn’t an option, emergency shelters in Eastern Kentucky include:

• Lee’s College Gymnasium and Jackson City School (Breathitt County)
• Paces Creek Elementary School and Laurel Creek Church of God (Clay County)
• First Baptist Church (Knox County)
• Lawrence County Community Center (Lawrence County)
• Martin County Middle School, old public library, and Inez Elementary School (Martin County)
• McCreary County School Gym (McCreary County)
• New Life Church (Pulaski County)

Additionally, four state parks are open for assistance:

• Buckhorn Lake
• Jenny Wiley
• Natural Bridge
• Pine Mountain

***Please contact these establishments directly for further information.

The Red Cross and local community shelters are offering temporary housing and support for displaced residents. Additionally, the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management provides a list of warming shelters and emergency housing locations. Those in immediate need should complete the Kentucky Rapid Needs Assessment Form to request assistance. 

2. Insurance guidance for flood victims

Many flood victims are facing severe property damage or total loss of their homes, making it essential to take the right steps when dealing with insurance claims. Acting quickly and documenting everything thoroughly can help ensure a smoother process.

Filing an insurance claim

1. Contact your insurance provider immediately – Notify your homeowners or renters insurance company as soon as possible to start your claim. Be prepared to provide details about the damage.
2. If you have flood insurance – Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood damage. If you have coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), file a claim promptly by calling your insurance agent or NFIP Direct at 1-800-638-6620. You can also visit FloodSmart.gov for guidance.
3. Document everything – Take detailed photos and videos of all damages before making repairs. Keep an inventory of damaged personal belongings, including receipts if possible.

Navigating the claims process

• Request a copy of your policy – Understanding your coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles can help prevent misunderstandings.
• Schedule an adjuster inspection – Your insurer will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be present during the inspection to point out all affected areas.
• Keep track of communications – Save all emails, letters, and notes from phone calls with your insurance company.

Getting additional help

• The Kentucky Department of Insurance provides assistance to help residents understand their policies and claims process. Visit insurance.ky.gov or call 1-800-595-6053 for guidance.
• If you face claim disputes or delays, legal aid organizations, such as Legal Aid of the Bluegrass and Kentucky Legal Aid, can help you challenge denials or negotiate better settlements.
• If you need emergency financial assistance, FEMA may offer grants for temporary housing and home repairs once federal disaster declarations are in place.

3. Replacing lost belongings and documents

Along with damage to homes and personal belongings, important documents are often lost in the wreckage. Replacing these vital records is essential for accessing financial aid, insurance claims, and other recovery resources. Kentucky residents who need to replace lost documents, such as driver’s licenses, birth certificates, or Social Security cards, can do so through the appropriate agencies:

Additionally, local relief organizations and churches are providing clothing, food, and household essentials for those who have lost their belongings.

4. Financial assistance and relief programs

In late February, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear requested FEMA assistance for the 10 most affected counties. Fortunately, emergency help was granted to some of the most devastated,  including Breathitt, Clay, Harlan, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, and Pike. Notably, some of the hardest-hit areas are also some of the most economically disadvantaged in the commonwealth, making financial support even more pressing for this region. 

For those affected by the recent severe weather in Eastern Kentucky, there are resources available to assist with recovery:

• FEMA assistance: If you have been affected, you can apply for FEMA assistance here. The FEMA incident ID number for the recent severe weather is EM-3624-KY.
• SBA disaster assistance: Explore low-interest loans through the Small Business Administration to help repair or replace damaged property.

5. Animal care and support

The floods in Kentucky have left many pets, strays, and wildlife displaced, requiring urgent care and support. While it’s important to help, your safety should always be a top priority. Here’s how you can assist animals in need while keeping everyone safe.

Helping displaced pets and stray animals

During floods, pets and strays often face displacement, and the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) plays a critical role in rescuing and caring for these animals. They partner with local shelters to provide relief, but community support is vital. You can help by donating supplies, fostering pets, or adopting displaced animals. If you encounter a stray, contact local shelters instead of approaching the animal yourself. 

In addition, KHS is waiving adoption fees for all adult dogs (1 year+) from Friday, February 28, to Sunday, March 2. This “Empty the Shelters” event, sponsored by BISSELL Pet Foundation, aims to create space for new arrivals and help them find their forever homes.

For further information, visit kyhumane.org/disasterrelief to learn more about how you can help KHS assist partner shelters in Eastern Kentucky.

Caring for wildlife

It’s common to see more wildlife during natural disasters like floods, as they, too, have lost their homes and are searching for food, clean water, and shelter. While it’s natural to want to help, it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance for both your well-being and theirs. Wild animals in distress can be unpredictable, and direct contact can be harmful to both parties. Instead, here are several ways you can offer support from a distance, ensuring their safety and your own.

• Set out fresh water and food: Many wild animals struggle to find clean water and food after floods—small dishes of fresh water, birdseed, or nuts can help.
• Create safe spaces: Leaving out brush piles or covered areas can provide temporary refuge for displaced wildlife.
• Avoid handling wild animals: Even if they seem distressed, direct interaction can be dangerous for both you and the animal. Instead, report injured wildlife to licensed rehabilitators.
• Remove hazards: Clear flood debris like plastic, fishing lines, and netting to prevent animals from getting trapped or injured.

6. Supporting recovery through donations and volunteering

As Eastern Kentucky continues to recover and rebuild from the recent storm, local communities remain resilient in the face of hardship. According to Gov. Andy Beshear, “This support will be a big help for our families and communities as they recover and rebuild from yet another terrible storm. Just like before, we will get through this — together. And I promise that we will be there as long as it takes — until every life and structure is rebuilt.”

Here are some ways to contribute to disaster relief efforts in Eastern Kentucky:

• Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund: A state-established fund to support survivors and funeral expenses.
• Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky’s Crisis Aid Fund: Accepting donations online or at 420 Main Street, Hazard, KY 41701. The foundation also has a resource spreadsheet for Eastern Kentucky. 
• Housing Development Alliance: Raising $50,000 for home repairs and rebuilding after flooding in Kentucky.
• Kentucky Community and Technical College: Seeking donations to assist students affected by the floods.
• University of Kentucky: Offering several funds to support students and employees in crisis. Visit their site for details.
• Christian Appalachian Project: Accepting financial donations and volunteers. Email volunteermanagement@chrisapp.org for more info.
• Feed Louisville: Volunteers needed to drive trucks with food supplies to Whitesburg. Email volunteer@feedlouisville.org to assist.
• Red Cross Blood Services: People of all blood types — especially those with type O negative blood and those giving platelets — are needed. Find a donation opportunity and schedule an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org, 1-800-RED CROSS or the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
• EKY Mutual Aid group: For a more grassroots, community-led approach to disaster relief, EKY Mutual Aid is building a resource pool that directly supports flood victims around Eastern Kentucky. 

7. Mental health and counseling services

In the wake of the devastating mountain floods, Mountain Comprehensive Care Center (MCCC) is stepping up to provide immediate mental health support to those in need.

If you or a loved one are struggling, help is available right now. You can call MCCC’s 24-hour helpline at 1-800-422-1060 for immediate assistance. You can also reach out to the **Suicide & Crisis Hotline.

This article discusses the Kentucky floods of 2025, a tragic event that resulted in loss of life and significant devastation. Some details may be distressing to readers. We aim to cover this topic with sensitivity and respect for those affected.