A Quick Note from LC Judge-Executive Steve Mays about flooding

Here’s a quick update  from LC Judge-Executive Steve Mays on the flooding this morning, April 4, 2025, "We have approximately eight roads that are covered with water. Emergency Management Director Blake Slone advised we have a 25 percent chance of moderate flooding, which is basically where we’re at now. We are expecting the river to crest in the next few hours and start rescinding. We will keep you updated as we get more information."

The City of Beattyville reported on April 3, 2025, "The Lee County Road Department reported that the county road maintenance has hit a main water line causing a break on Primrose Lane, resulting in a water outage and the issuance of a boil water advisory for the affected area. 

Work Crews are in route to repair and restore service as quickly as possible.  Once service is restored there will be a boil water advisory.  Please follow the recommended guidelines.

Boil Water Advisory Guidelines:

• Boiling Water: Bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before consuming, cooking, or brushing teeth.

• Alternative Water Sources: Use bottled water if boiling is not feasible.

• Infants and Young Children: Ensure water used for preparing infant formula or baby food is boiled.

• Dishwashing: Use boiled water or sanitize dishes using a dishwasher’s high-temperature setting.

• Bathing and Showering: Adults may bathe or shower using tap water, but ensure no water is ingested. Exercise caution when bathing infants and young children.

The advisory was listed as a precautionary action and can only be lifted with the approval of the Kentucky Division of Water. When all appropriate laboratory testing is completed and the Kentucky Division of Water allows us to lift the advisory, we will inform you when you no longer need to boil your water.

Contact Information: Beattyville Waterworks: For updates and inquiries, contact Beattyville Waterworks at 606-464-5007 or visit their website. We will continue to provide updates as we get them. Stay alert, and please take necessary precautions. "

The Beattyville Main Street Program reported the following, "As of 8:50 AM today, Friday, April 4, 2025, the water has risen to 27 feet—a slow but steady increase." And then again, this morning, they reported the following, "Water is now over the road on Highway 52 at the underpass (near City Hall) and the road is closed. 

The flood marker at the WPA building is nearing 27 feet as of 4:00am.

Also, some quick info from Buckhorn Lake as of April 3, 2025: "The Heidelberg gage on the Kentucky River is rising and expected to be above flood stage tonight. Buckhorn Lake will be reducing outflow according to regulations from the Water Control Manual due to these elevated river levels downstream. The Heidelberg gage is forecast to fall tomorrow, if that is the case then Buckhorn will increase releases at that time. 

Despite our required reduction in outflow, the latest forecasts show lower reservoir elevations then previously forecast. Precipitation forecasts predict that another 2.5 inches (total) could fall over the Buckhorn drainage area by Monday morning. By Saturday, April 5, Buckhorn Lake could rise to elevation 765 – 770 MSL. After the additional rain event on Saturday/Sunday, Buckhorn Lake could rise to elevation of 780 – 790 MSL by Tuesday April 8th.

We are committed to providing the best information based on forecasts with adjustments using real-time data as this event unfolds. We understand your frustrations with the fluctuating forecasts and appreciate your patience."