Bowling Green Declares State of Emergency Due to Flooding

News Summary

Bowling Green has declared a state of emergency following severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall. Key roads are affected, and the city is seeking federal assistance from FEMA. While there are no fatalities reported, property damage is substantial. Residents face numerous challenges as their homes are impacted, and emergency services are focused on addressing health risks and shelter needs. The community’s resilience is evident as efforts to restore access and recover begin amidst ongoing flood hazards.

Bowling Green in State of Emergency Amidst Devastating Flooding

In a serious turn of events, Bowling Green has declared a state of emergency as heavy rainfall has led to some of the worst flooding the city has seen in years. Mayor Todd Alcott’s decision comes as a proactive step to hasten the disaster response efforts and to seek federal assistance from FEMA, showing just how dire the situation has become for many residents.

Areas Hard-Hit by Flooding

The flooding has caused significant damage in various areas, with streets such as Nashville Road, Louisville Road, and Russellville Road being particularly affected. Thankfully, the city has reported the absence of fatalities; however, the anticipated property losses are substantial and many families are now facing uncertainty.

According to the City of Bowling Green, public information officer Debi West explained that the recent deluge has overwhelmed both the storm and cave drainage systems, which have been critical to managing excess water in the area. Residents living along Cave Mill Road are especially vulnerable to flooding due to the region’s unique cave systems.

Community Impact

Local resident Dale Oliver has found his family in a daunting situation after floodwaters rendered their home unlivable. This has been particularly distressing for Oliver’s family, as his children, who require special medical care due to autism, have experienced delays in receiving critical medications due to road closures.

Further down the street, Remzja Avdic has faced enormous challenges as well. Her home has been inundated by floodwaters, and unfortunately, she lacks flood insurance—making the situation even more precarious. Throughout the neighborhood, residents are struggling to find help amidst the chaos of rising waters and damaged infrastructure.

Ongoing Flood Hazards

The storm drainage systems have suffered critical compromise, leading to ongoing flood hazards in and around Bowling Green. To make matters worse, after a string of rain starting on April 2, 2025, the Barren River and Drake’s Creek remained at flood stage and are projected to crest multiple times in the coming days.

With some subdivisions cut off from main roads, the public works team is scrambling to implement emergency road construction efforts, bringing a ray of hope to residents who desperately need to regain access.

Health Concerns and Community Efforts

While the local government is working diligently to assist residents, there are health risks associated with the floodwaters, which may be contaminated with raw sewage. This concern only adds to the urgency of the situation as the city conducts physical rescues for those trapped by the flood.

In total, five sinkholes have been reported throughout Bowling Green as a direct consequence of the flooding, leading emergency authorities to closely monitor the evolving situation. The Warren County Emergency Management team has already begun organizing temporary shelters for those displaced by the devastating effects of the flooding, showcasing the resilient spirit of the community.

Safety Advisories

In the face of this overwhelming situation, residents are urged to stay away from floodwaters and heed all road barriers for their own safety. The city is on track to apply for FEMA reimbursement if it meets the necessary property damage thresholds, an essential step for recovery in the coming months.

With the community rallying together during this tough time, Bowling Green residents are holding on to hope as they begin to deal with the aftermath of what can only be described as a historical flooding event. The road to recovery will undoubtedly be challenging, but the resilience of this city shines brightly in the face of adversity.

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Additional Resources

• Bowling Green Daily News
• Wikipedia: Flood
• WBKO
• Google Search: Bowling Green flooding
• WKU Herald
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Natural Disaster
• Spectrum News 1
• Google News: Bowling Green Kentucky flooding
• WBKO: Local Business Owner