What is the location of the flooding?

A widespread flooding event occurred in Kentucky, Tennessee, and other U.S. states in the South on February 16, 2025. Areas surrounding the Tennessee River Valley and the Obion River in Tennessee were significantly impacted (1). At least eleven people died in Kentucky and one died in Georgia (2).

Major rivers such as the Barren River in Kentucky also experienced severe flooding. The flooding was part of a broader storm system affecting the southeastern United States. All 120 counties in Kentucky have been affected, and some places experienced over six inches of rain.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The storm and flooding impacted multiple cities and regions, including:

• Bowling Green, Kentucky
• Clarksville, Tennessee
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Pikeville, Kentucky
• Prestonsburg, Kentucky
• Rives, Tennessee

Additional impacts were reported in Atlanta, Georgia, where a fatality occurred due to storm-related damage. The storms and rain led to power outages in Georgia, Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

The floodwaters remain a significant hazard. While the heavy rains have subsided, rivers are still rising, and snow in the coming days may exacerbate flooding risks. Efforts are ongoing to restore infrastructure, with over 1,000 water rescues conducted in Kentucky and emergency response teams actively working in affected areas (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A mandatory evacuation order was issued in Rives, Tennessee after the Obion River levee failure led to rapid-onset flooding.

Flood warnings and travel advisories remain in effect across Kentucky, with over 9,800 homes without water and 26,000 residents under boil-water advisories. Authorities continue urging residents to avoid driving through standing water and obey road closures.

Emergency response operations are ongoing, and residents in at-risk areas should remain vigilant and follow official guidance.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

• Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
• Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
• If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
• Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
• Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
• Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
• If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.