Kentucky's Governor Declares State of Emergency Ahead of 4-Day Severe Weather Event With Possible Tornadoes

He has activated emergency response, price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 2, 2025) – Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency ahead of the first round of severe storms that are expected to last for four days. The storm is especially concerning for far Western Kentucky, which is going to see potentially historic amounts of rain, and strong winds with the possibility of tornadoes are in the forecast for much of Kentucky.

In a video message, the Governor said far Western Kentucky is facing a severe weather risk at a Level 5, which means there could be widespread severe storms that are intense and long-lived. Across the state there are concerns about tornadoes, hail, flooding and strong winds. The Governor is urging all Kentuckians to find a safe place to stay tonight.

“Tornadoes are expected, and I know that’s tough to hear. And we are most concerned about the area of Western Kentucky that has gotten hit far too much, as well as a wider area of Western Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said. “Remember, these can be strong tornadoes, EF-2 and greater. We’re really concerned about people’s safety, especially in the overnight, because when storms or tornadoes hit while people are asleep, that’s sadly when we’ve lost the most people. So, everybody out there, be really careful.”

The Governor is taking action by activating the Kentucky Emergency Operations Center and units of the Kentucky National Guard to stand ready to respond. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials and crews are also on alert, and local emergency management leaders are working to keep Kentuckians everywhere informed.

Gov. Beshear also implemented the state’s price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they clean up and recover from the storm. Consumers should report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General.

Drivers are urged to check traffic conditions before traveling at GoKy.ky.gov.

For additional preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.