USA (MNN) — Heavy storms and flooding killed at least 37 people across Eastern Kentucky last week. Infrastructure damage made it hard to even reach some communities.
Between 30 to 40 bridges washed out in Pike County alone. In Letcher County, mud destroyed the city hall and damaged the town bank, pharmacy, and post office. Some schools suffered enough damage they may not reopen at the normal time.
Now, scorching heat settles into the region. Officials have opened eight cooling centers to shelter people.
Churches helping
We spoke to radio affiliate WHTL 90.5 FM, part of the King of Kings Radio Network in Somerset, KY.
General Manager David Carr says, “The flooding is devastating. That’s an easy word for it. And folks are homeless. Many efforts right now are being made by not only outside organizations, but churches are coming together, uniting together, sending things over as well as offering their help.”
WTHL is gathering supplies to help with cleaning. Carr says, “There’s a gentleman that has a box truck, and we’re sort of passing that truck around and loading it up. Things like cleaning supplies are very helpful right now: buckets, brushes, even rags, towels, bleach, Clorox, anything to deal with mold.”
“We’d like to do it at least three or four times a week.”
Want to help with this work? You can visit the King of Kings Radio website. And pray the action of local churches will show the love of Jesus to those who are hurting.
The header image shows the pattern of the heaviest rainfall in Eastern Kentucky. (Photo courtesy of NWS Jackson, Kentucky, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)
