Forecasters say excessive rainfall will continue through 11 p.m. EDT, with some communities expected to receive as much as seven inches of rain. State officials are urging Kentuckians to stay off the roads, particularly after dark, when floodwaters and poor visibility make travel especially hazardous.
"This is a serious flooding event, where teams have already had to conduct multiple water rescues from vehicles and homes across the commonwealth," Beshear said. "As more heavy rain continues through late tonight, we need folks to remain alert and to avoid driving, especially after dark when there is limited visibility."
The governor said the state has received reports of fatalities that authorities are working to confirm.
Five counties—Bullitt, Madison, Meade, Mercer and Spencer—have declared local states of emergency as rising water continues to impact homes, businesses and roadways.
Emergency crews from Kentucky Emergency Management, the Kentucky State Police and pre-positioned swift water rescue teams are responding to calls across the Commonwealth. Officials said responders have rescued people trapped in flooded vehicles and homes, while a community-wide evacuation is underway in Bullitt County.
As emergency response efforts continue, Beshear is asking residents to use 911 only for life-threatening emergencies to keep dispatch lines available for those in immediate danger. People needing assistance with non-life-threatening situations are encouraged to call the State Warning Point at 1-800-255-2587.
Drivers are also urged to monitor road conditions before traveling and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Current highway conditions are available through Kentucky's GoKY traffic information system.
Along with the emergency declaration, Beshear activated Kentucky's price gouging protections, which prohibit businesses from charging excessive prices for essential goods and services during the emergency. Consumers who believe they have encountered price gouging can file complaints with the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General.
State officials continue to monitor conditions as heavy rain moves across Kentucky and are urging residents to remain weather aware and follow instructions from local emergency management officials.