By Jacque Day
Paducah, Ky. – U.S. Senator Rand Paul visited McCracken County today. He met with Paducah Mayor Bill Paxton and Judge Executive Van Newberry, as well as other emergency officials. Mayor Paxton said after the meeting that he felt the senator better understands the condition of Paducah-McCracken County and how flooding has affected residents and businesses.
President Obama has granted Kentucky's request for federal assistance. The Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs provide assistance in rebuilding infrastructure, but they don't assist individuals for home repairs. FEMA assessment teams are gathering information for the Individuals and Household Assistance Program, which could help individuals get back on their feet. FEMA stresses that it may be several weeks before McCracken County finds out if its residents qualify for individual assistance.
The National Weather Service River Forecast Center indicates the Ohio River at Paducah is cresting. This afternoon, the river reached 54.93 feet and is expected to drop below 54 feet by Tuesday. Discharge from Kentucky and Barkley dams will continue to be high over the next few days, preventing the Ohio River from dropping significantly.