February: Kentucky’s Hidden Flood Season

February is typically a cold month across the Commonwealth, but it can also be a wet one. The combination of frozen ground, melting snow, and heavy rain can lead to devastating river flooding. In fact, many of Kentucky’s most catastrophic river floods have occurred during this month.

History bears this out. Most recently, river flooding in February 2025 hit parts of eastern Kentucky hard with some of the highest crests on record observed on the Tug Fork River.  Just a few years before this, eastern Kentucky was hit in February and early March of 2021 with record-breaking or near-record crests on the South Fork of the Kentucky River at Booneville and downstream on the main stem of the Kentucky. Many longtime residents also remember the “Flood of ’57,” when the headwaters of the Big Sandy, Kentucky, and Cumberland Rivers rose so fast that many families had to evacuate without their belongings. That disaster claimed nine lives and destroyed nearly 600 homes.

Even further back, the “Great Flood of 1937” surpassed all prior floods in the history of the Ohio River Valley. In fact, geological evidence suggests it may have been the largest flood in the river system's history; the crest at Louisville remains a full 10 feet higher than the second-highest crest ever observed, with the crest at Paducah remaining over 5 feet higher than the second-highest observed crest!

The National Weather Service (NWS) provides critical river level forecasts to keep you safe. Understanding the terminology is your first line of defense:

• Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. If you are in a flood-prone area, stay tuned to trusted news sources and the NWS. Be ready to seek higher ground at a moment's notice.
• Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or imminent. Move to higher ground immediately.

Unfortunately, most flood-related fatalities occur when drivers ignore road closures. It only takes a small amount of water to turn a vehicle into a boat. In fact, just six inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult. As little as 12 to 24 inches can sweep away everything from a small car to a large SUV or truck.

Never attempt to cross floodwaters by vehicle or on foot. During a flood, the decision to turn around or delay travel isn't just about saving your vehicle—it’s about saving your life. Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Source: Tony Edwards – National Weather Service Charleston, WV. The University of Kentucky is an Equal Opportunity Provider.