CINCINNATI — The Butler County Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Services Team is sending down five members to Kentucky to assist in the aftermath of flooding that affected the state over the weekend.
According to Kentucky Emergency Management Association, as well as other officials, the flooding from storms over the weekend has killed at least 11 people. Thousands are without power and more than 1,000 rescues have been conducted. There's also been hundreds of road closures.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said most of the deaths, including a mother and 7-year-old child, were caused by cars getting stuck in high water.
“So folks, stay off the roads right now and stay alive,” he said.
Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones wrote in a Facebook post that the team will help wherever needed, as the weather is expected to overwhelm resources. The team is expected to be deployed for seven days.
“Our training and service to the community reaches far beyond the borders of Butler County. If we are called up to assist other agencies in a time of crisis, we will answer that call without hesitation,” said Jones.
Ohio Task Force 1 was also deployed to Kentucky. The team left their headquarters in Vandalia just after 10:30 a.m. Sunday.
Parts of Kentucky and Tennessee received up to 6 inches of rain, said Bob Oravec, a senior forecaster with the National Weather Service.
“The effects will continue for awhile, a lot of swollen streams and a lot of flooding going on,” Oravec said Sunday.
Blue Ash-based Matthew 25: Ministries is also responding to the flooding in Kentucky, Tennessee and other states.
In a press release from the organization, the nonprofit said it is working with its regional partners to deliver aid to those in need.
“Our hearts are broken for the families and communities who have lost so much in this devastating flood,” said Tim Mettey, CEO of Matthew 25: Ministries, in the release. “In times of crisis, we stand alongside those affected, working to provide immediate aid and relief. Our team is committed to helping these communities to recover and rebuild, offering supplies and hope and support in their greatest time of need.”
They are asking for monetary and product donations.
You can drop off donations at 11083 Kenwood Road in Blue Ash. You can donate money online or mail a check to the same address above, postal code 45242.
President Donald Trump approved Kentucky's request for a disaster declaration, authorizing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate relief efforts throughout the state.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.