The recent severe weather in Kentucky has tragically resulted in a death toll of 21, as announced by Governor Andy Beshear on Saturday. This follows the devastating flooding and freezing temperatures that struck the region last weekend.

The relentless storms not only caused chaos in Kentucky but also affected the central Plains, bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds alongside additional perilous conditions.

“It is with a heavy heart that I report the number of lives lost to this week’s extreme weather has reached 21, including a man from Logan County,” Governor Beshear shared on his social media account. “Each individual lost is a fellow Kentuckian and a child of God, taken from us too soon. Please join Britainy and me in prayer for their grieving families.”

Among the victims are adults who succumbed to hypothermia and flooding, as well as at least one child who tragically lost their life alongside their mother as their vehicle was swept away.

Last week, approximately 60 million residents faced winter weather alerts that extended from the Central Plains to the Carolina coastline due to the intensifying storm system.

During the weekend, Governor Beshear confirmed that Kentucky has received a federal disaster declaration and is awaiting approval for additional assistance from the federal government. The state has also requested individual aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

In light of the devastation, Beshear has been encouraging residents to contribute to the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund, initiated to support those affected by the storms that began on February 15. The primary aim is to fund funeral costs for the victims.

“Hundreds of families have been severely impacted and are currently engaged in the challenging task of recovery, having lost so much,” Beshear said in a recent video update.

Hope for improved conditions lies ahead, as warmer temperatures and drier, spring-like weather are predicted for early next week, according to forecasts from the National Weather Service in Louisville.

Currently, around 660 residents are still without power, and over 100 roads remain closed across the state. Moreover, nearly 600 Kentuckians are seeking shelter outside their homes, finding refuge in parks, hotels, schools, and churches.

“Kentucky has faced one of the most severe natural disasters in recent history, impacting the entire state,” Beshear remarked. “Though recovery will take time, I am thankful for the efforts being made to restore power, clear roads, and ensure the safety of our communities. Together, we will overcome this challenge.”