FRANKFORT, KY – Gov. Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency following a multiple-car train derailment that occurred on Wednesday, afternoon November, 22, 2023 in Rockcastle County.
The Rockcastle County judge/executive has declared a state of emergency for the county and the Governor’s executive order allows the state to activate resources, including Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky National Guard, as needed to help protect Kentucky families and communities. Response efforts for the incident are ongoing, and local officials are encouraging those in the town of Livingston to evacuate.
“By issuing a state of emergency, we are ensuring that every state resource is available to help keep our families safe,” Gov. Beshear said. “Please stay clear of this area as state, local and CSX officials respond.”
The state’s Emergency Operations Center has also been activated to Level 4. The state’s Energy and Environment Cabinet Emergency Response Team is also on scene.
The Governor has also activated the state’s price gouging laws to protect families from grossly overpriced goods and services. With the state of emergency in place, consumers in the commonwealth can report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. Under state law, price gougers can be held accountable.
The Disaster Distress Helpline is a 24/7, year-round, confidential crisis counseling and emotional support resource for survivors, responders and anyone in the United States struggling with distress or other mental health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disaster.
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*Picture is a stock photo of a CSX train and not the train involved in the incident.
