(WKYT) — Flooding recovery is underway in parts of southern Kentucky after Clinton County was hit hard early Sunday morning.
Floodwaters surrounded and consumed homes in a valley that has no creek or river. Because the area is not a flood plain, residents have no flood insurance.
Survivors assess losses
Leslie Smith Cash returned to her home for the first time Tuesday since early Sunday, when floodwaters rose around the structure.
“I didn’t think we were going to be able to make it out,” Smith said. “The water came so fast, within 45 minutes. “She said it got close to the house about 4:30 Sunday morning, then entered the home about 5:30.
It took nearly two days for the water to recede. Smith said community support has helped her family through the loss.
“Our strength is in the Lord. And from our community,” Smith said. “So many people have reached out to us and other families. Overwhelming.”
Smith said people from other states and other counties have shown up to help. She added that nearly everything inside her home was lost, though an “Amazing Grace” sign inside was not damaged.
“Our community has been amazing,” Smith said. “I can’t thank them enough or everybody. People show up. Other states. Other countries.”
Teen loses birthday gift in flood
Jersey Smith, a teenager who had just celebrated her 16th birthday and received a car as a gift, also lost the vehicle to floodwaters. She was spending the night elsewhere when the flooding began.
“I was really sad and devastated,” Jersey Smith said. “Everything I owned was in that house. Now I don’t have anything.”
FEMA assistance sought
Local emergency officials are hoping FEMA can help replace what was lost and what insurance will not cover.
There were a number of water rescues in Clinton County. Officials say no major injuries were reported.