The Tennessee National Guard is responding to catastrophic flooding in Kentucky, sending resources to combat the impact of the natural disaster.
The flooding has led to the deaths of at least 26 people – a number that could climb as rain continues to fall in the region.
According to a release from the Tennessee Department of Military, multiple helicopters were sent to the state in order to help local officials in the rescue operations.
“Two UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters from Nashville’s 1-230th Assault Helicopter Battalion have deployed to Jackson, Kentucky, to assist with rescue operations. One helicopter is the Tennessee National Guard’s Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team comprised of rescue divers from the Nashville Fire Department. The second rescue helicopter is working with the Nashville Fire Department’s swift water rescue team,” the website explained.
“Three medical evacuation Black Hawk helicopters from Task Force MEDEVAC, stationed in Louisville, Tennessee, have also been activated to assist with rescues. Each aircraft is equipped with an emergency hoist system, water rescue baskets, exposure suits, and swift water trained medics and aircrew.”
Governor Bill Lee authorized the resources to deploy to the eastern portion of the state and work in coordination with both the Tennessee and Kentucky Emergency Management agencies.
“The Volunteer State is committed to supporting our neighbors in Kentucky as they respond to devastating flooding. Grateful for the efforts of @T_E_M_A, @TNMilitaryDept & all emergency professionals as they assist communities across Eastern Kentucky,” Lee tweeted.
The Volunteer State is committed to supporting our neighbors in Kentucky as they respond to devastating flooding. Grateful for the efforts of @T_E_M_A, @TNMilitaryDept & all emergency professionals as they assist communities across Eastern Kentucky. https://t.co/RPFQDJ5yKh
— Gov. Bill Lee (@GovBillLee) July 29, 2022
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear’s office detailed that efforts have rescued more than 1,432 residents – 224 of which were rescued by Tennessee forces.
“We are so grateful to all those responders, and a special thank-you to the governors and the Guard of Tennessee and West Virginia,” Beshear said.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Tennessee National Guard” by Tennessee National Guard.
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