CHAVIES, Ky. —  State representatives from eastern Kentucky took a helicopter over areas affected by the floods Thursday morning.

Even stopping in some locations to hand off donations to those who cannot leave their homes. 

A helicopter ride over counties destroyed by the flood, provided a view that state Sen. Johnnie Turner (D-29) says was unimaginable.

“I just feel like if your kids are playing with toys, with the house and the cars, and when they dumped them to put them up in the box. That’s the way some of the communities up in the air looked unbelievable,” Turner said. 

Turner along with other politicians joined the Kentucky National Guard for an aerial tour Thursday morning. 

Senate president Robert Stivers (R-25) says the devastation he saw will leave a lasting impact

“When we go up in the air, you don’t just see what’s right in front of you. Within 15 to 20 feet to the right and left, you’ll see the full spectrum. That’s the type of thing sticking with me,” Stivers said.

Stivers says he’s proud of the counties and the districts stepping up to help their neighbors. Rep. Chris Fugate (R-84) says they’ve even received help from those who understand their loss. 

“I have a phone that never stops for one time. I’m thankful the phone never stops because you’ve heard from western Kentucky who just went through this with tornadoes are now bringing things left over from the tornadoes,” Fugate said.

The representatives say they are still working to assess the damages and what exactly they will need from a higher level. But Stivers says this is just the beginning of an endless journey for eastern Kentucky and says as a state, they will get through this.

The representatives are asking people to reach out to local law enforcement around Kentucky to find out how they can help, and say their next concern will be to find volunteers to rebuild these communities.