Debris from Kentucky's spring floods continues to put communities at risk

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Flood debris along the Rolling Fork River is putting Nelson County communities in possible danger. 

Areas of Nelson County along the Rolling Fork River are frequently hit by flooding, including a flood this past spring that left behind debris that's still causing problems because it's backing up the river, much like a dam. That could cause significant issues during another rain event and potentially worsen any flooding. 

Nelson County EMA recently surveyed the river -- and found two areas of concern: a growing debris pile near a bridge, and a massive blockage spanning the entire width of the river.

"This is significant because it impedes the entire river's flow," said Brad Metcalf with the Nelson County EMA. "It's almost like a beaver dam. If we get any significant rain whatsoever, it's going to act as a dam and multiply that flood damage to an immense degree."

Communities along the Rolling Fork River have seen what can happen when it floods. It's a constant fear for many people living in the flood-prone areas of Nelson County. This past spring’s flooding brought devastation and left behind a lot of debris.

"It is devastating," said Jessica Hawkins, who lives in the area. "It's scary -- can you imagine? I mean everything that you own, your life's work, always at risk?" 

Hawkins said the recent floods caused major problems for the community. 

"People have to go in and take everything out of their businesses and their homes," she said. "They uproot, basically, and then all you do is pray."

Along with a lot of heartbreak, the floods left behind piles of debris. 

The county says it will cost about $100,000 to remove the debris. Leaders have put in a funding request to FEMA, and will keep a close watch on on the river while they wait for approval.

We're going to try to do what we need to in the short term," Metcalf said, "and that may be that we get in and try to remove part of the debris to at least get the river flowing back again and then try to wait for the FEMA funding for the larger part of the project."

This is just one project that to be addressed. Officials said spring flooding has caused more than $3 million in damage to county infrastructure alone.

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