CYNTHIANA, Ky. (LEX 18) — Harrison County is preparing for flooding that could displace up to 500 people Tuesday evening.
The Red Cross is currently set up at Harrison County Middle School to help those who will need shelter tonight. Notices have gone out to people in high risk areas who could be forced from their homes due to high water.
Red Cross volunteers told LEX 18 that people who need help can stop by Harrison County Middle School where they will either be set up with a cot or set up at another location.
Many precautions are being taken in light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
As of 10:05 p.m. on Tuesday, the National Weather Service is predicting the South Fork Licking River in Cynthiana to crest at 22.8 feet at 8 a.m. on Wednesday.
This would be just under what NWS considers "major" flooding.
A crest at this level may cause some to be displaced, but it will cause less damage than the earlier predicted 26 foot crest.
The county remains prepared if the forecast changes once again.
"The '97 flood was just almost half of town, from Main Street down West was pretty much under water," Barnett reflected. "It was devastating to the city of Cynthiana. We didn't lose any lives but it was just very dramatic and a lot of homes under water."
Red Cross volunteers told LEX 18 they will likely be in town for days to help people who have been or will be displaced.
