Floyd County's Perpetual Flood Crisis: A Federal Rescue Cycle

Floyd County, eastern Kentucky, has experienced devastating floods 14 times since 2011. Repeatedly necessitating federal disaster declarations, these floods result in billions of dollars in aid and highlight the broader issue of increased frequency and severity of natural disasters across America. Residents, however, are continually displaced and struggle to adapt.

Floyd County, Kentucky, continues to face relentless flooding, prompting repeated federal disaster declarations.

In July 2022, floods claimed 40 lives and damaged 300 homes, marking the county's 13th federal disaster declaration in 12 years. The floods left Judge Robbie Williams overwhelmed, with 500 homeless residents seeking help.

Floyd County was once again declared a disaster area in 2023, making it the 14th time since 2011. Nearby Johnson County leads with 15 such declarations by FEMA.

An atlas by New York University's Institute for Public Knowledge charts 713 FEMA-declared disasters, showing Kentucky's frequent disasters. Amy Chester, from Rebuild By Design, emphasizes these recurring local disasters often go unnoticed compared to high-profile hurricane-hit areas.

Chester highlighted that climate change already impacts regions like Vermont and Kentucky, contradicting the assumption that some areas are safer. Disasters, particularly floods, are increasingly common and severe.

However, places like Mecklenburg County, NC, haven't faced federal disasters since 2011, attributing their avoidance to geography and preparedness.

Floyd County's flood issues are exacerbated by environmental regulations preventing creek dredging, leading to increased flooding due to shallower creeks. The county's government has received over $35 million in FEMA aid since 2011 but remains vulnerable.

Looking at congressional districts, a disparity emerges: Republican-represented areas face more frequent disasters, whereas Democrat-led regions often remain unscathed. This highlights that disaster management and climate change acknowledgment transcend partisan lines. In Floyd County, FEMA is assisting with relocating residents to safer areas, yet many are reluctant to leave.

(With inputs from agencies.)