Governor Andy Beshear got a first-hand look Friday at the damage in downtown Hopkinsville caused by last week’s straight-line winds that moved quickly through the area.
Once he toured the damage in the downtown area between East 9th Street and East 6th Street, Beshear said the city was fortunate there were no serious injuries that came from the weather event.
click to download audioThe governor had praise for the community and Mayor Knight for the quick response in the aftermath.
click to download audioChristine Wielgos, the lead warning coordinator for the National Weather Service, said last Friday’s storm was the result of straight-line winds that neared 90 mph but didn’t result in a warning prior to moving through.
click to download audioIn terms of state and federal assistance, Beshear said there may be some creativity needed when the request is filed.
click to download audioBeshear said localized damage can be harder to get assistance for a variety of reasons.
click to download audioFriday’s straight-line winds were the second major weather event to hit Hopkinsville and Christian County following a March 3 storm. Beshear said federal assistance should be coming soon for last month’s event.
click to download audioThe governor met with Mayor J.R. Knight, Judge-executive Jerry Gilliam, and other local officials and emergency management representatives prior to the tour.
