On Saturday, February 15, extreme winter storms began impacting communities across the Southeast United States (US), bringing high winds, devastating flooding, and tornadoes. As of Monday, February 17, officials have confirmed at least 13 weather-related fatalities. Additionally, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported that on February 15, at least eight tornadoes touched down across Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Just days earlier, on Wednesday, February 12, two tornadoes had already impacted Mississippi, damaging 59 structures across the state.
Over 140 KYNG Soldiers and Airmen are actively responding to the ongoing emergency across the Commonwealth. We will continue working with KYEM to help where needed. If you need assistance, please contact your local emergency management. pic.twitter.com/V4EoYa2hEs
— Kentucky Guard (@kentuckyguard) February 16, 2025
X: Kentucky Guard
Over the weekend of February 15, a rare level four-out-of-four flood risk was issued for more than one million people in Kentucky and Tennessee as a powerful storm system brought heavy rainfall across the region. The system extended into the Mid-Atlantic, prompting a flash flood emergency—the highest alert issued by the NWS for flash flooding—for communities across Virginia and West Virginia. According to the NWS Louisville, between February 15 and February 16, Kentucky received three to seven inches of rain, surpassing the state’s average monthly rainfall in less than 24 hours.
As floodwaters inundated the state, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Troopers performed more than 1,000 rescues and evacuated 100 nursing home residents. By February 16, Kentucky authorities reported that nearly 40,000 residents were without power, 9,800 service connections lacked water, and 26,000 residents were under a boil-water advisory. Additionally, as of February 17, more than 300 state roadways were closed due to flood damage and mudslides—a potentially record-breaking number of closures, according to Governor Beshear.
The levee near Rives along the Obion River has failed, resulting in rapid onset flooding of the town of Rives and surrounding areas. Water rescues are ongoing. If you are in the area, GET TO HIGH GROUND NOW! This is a LIFE THREATENING situation. pic.twitter.com/1w6rwMicdC
— NWS Memphis (@NWSMemphis) February 16, 2025
X: NWS Memphis
On February 16, following a levee breach along the Obion River near Rives, Tennessee, Obion County Mayor Steve Carr declared a state of emergency as rapid-onset flooding prompted life-threatening conditions in the surrounding communities. In Virginia, Governor Glenn Youngkin submitted an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration to support the ongoing response and recovery efforts for affected communities. Additionally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized federal assistance for all 120 counties in Kentucky to supplement response efforts associated with the severe storms and flooding.
Know your risks and be prepared.
In the event of a flood, FEMA recommends individuals seek higher ground, avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, and follow guidance from local authorities. Often, the most important step is to seek shelter away from the water, which may necessitate getting to the highest ground possible or evacuating the area if instructed. During a flooding event, it is important to pay close attention to emergency alerts and local notification systems for the most up-to-date information. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio are excellent resources for the latest warnings, watches, and advisories. For more flood safety information, visit Ready.gov.
With ongoing flooding and additional heavy rainfall expected over the next three days, it’s really important to understand your flood risk!
During a flood, water levels and the rate at which the water is flowing can quickly change. Get to higher ground. Do not drive or walk into… pic.twitter.com/CTFnsZbBUk
— National Weather Service (@NWS) February 13, 2025
X: NWS
Ready.gov also provides essential information on preparing for and staying safe during tornadoes, including identifying a safe shelter, preparing a go-bag, and staying updated on warnings and notices.
Over the coming days and weeks, Hagerty will continue to provide information and updates on current extreme weather events and disasters impacting the nation through our situational updates. Visit the Disaster Discourse Blog for the latest information.