At least 14 people have been confirmed dead after powerful storms and a destructive tornado tore through Kentucky late Friday night, Governor Andy Beshear announced.
The most severe impact was in Laurel County, where a tornado touched down just before midnight, carving a path of destruction through key roads including Keavy Road, KY 10-06, and Old Whitley Road. According to the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, nine of the reported fatalities occurred in this area alone.
Kentucky, we’re starting today with the tough news that we lost at least 14 of our people to last night’s storms, but sadly, this number is expected to grow as we receive more information. Please pray for all of our affected families.
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) May 17, 2025
Emergency crews remain on the ground, combing through the wreckage in search of survivors. Rescue operations are ongoing, and officials have warned that the death toll may continue to rise.
“The situation is dire,” Governor Beshear said in an update. “This number is expected to grow.” He had declared a state of emergency before the storms hit, citing threats of high winds, flooding, hail, and tornadoes.
The storms knocked down power lines and trees throughout the region, leaving tens of thousands without electricity. Jefferson County alone saw more than 28,000 power outages as of early Saturday.
In Louisville, a massive tree collapsed onto a home on Wurtele Avenue. Local resident Jeannie Peak described the terrifying moment. “I was in the kitchen and heard a big thump,” she said. “I thought, oh, that sounded just like a tree falling.”
Firefighters quickly responded and used axes to break through the debris. Fortunately, everyone inside was safely rescued.
Governor Beshear has also enacted Kentucky’s price gouging laws to protect storm victims from predatory pricing on essential goods and services. Residents are urged to report any suspected price gouging directly to the Office of the Attorney General.
“Please pray for all of our affected families,” the governor said in his statement, as the state braces for the full toll of the destruction.
More details are expected during the governor’s Team Kentucky update on Saturday morning.
This is a developing story and will be updated as new information becomes available.