Louisville responders join relief efforts after deadly storms in Laurel County

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Numerous agencies have been deployed to eastern Kentucky after storms left at least 14 people dead.

The death toll is likely to rise, according to Gov. Andy Beshear. Local authorities in Laurel County, in the state's southeast, said nine people were killed after a tornado touched down.

A dozen members of Louisville Fire Department and another 12 from Jefferson County Search and Rescue mobilized as a unified Level 3 Urban Search and Rescue team and were deployed in London.

"Our team, along with a representative from LDF supporting the state's Incident Management Team, is on the ground to assist with search, rescue and potential recovery operations," Louisville Fire Department posted.

The crews had a full complement of resources with specialized search and rescue equipment.

"We are proud of the dedication, skill, and heart our personnel bring to every mission," Louisville Fire said. "Our thoughts are with the affected communities, and our boots are on the ground to help however we can."

Anchorage Middletown Fire & EMS also deployed members of its Heavy Urban Rescue Team in London. The eight-member team was deployed at 1:15 a.m.

“We commend and thank the dedicated AMFEMS members partaking in this deployment to assist our fellow Kentuckians,” AMFEMS Chief Pat Walsh said in a news release. “Our dedicated men and women train regularly for these types of events and are always ready to lend a hand.”

The Salvation Army has also mobilized disaster response teams after the severe weather hit. There are teams serving hot meals, beverages and care in Laurel and Pulaski counties.

"The damage in Somerset is heartbreaking," Lt. Judah Irvin, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army in Danville, said in a news release. "We’ve seen homes leveled, businesses destroyed, and families trying to pick up the pieces. In the midst of this devastation, we’re here to provide food, comfort, and hope—and we’ll be here for as long as it takes."

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