We're still here! Last week was a bit much, had two tornados touch down in the span of four days and then Flash Flood Warning and their big sister River Flood Warning came to stay for the second half. Turns out River is going to be with us for a while.
The second tornado and this flood, also our second of the year, were a bit exceptional, or at least the city ain't seen the likes of such since the 90s at least. The rain finally let up on Sunday and the sun showed its face today, had to head for the river.
Thankfully nobody was hurt or killed by the tornado and the flooding hasn't claimed anybody in the city (other parts of the state have fared less well) but both caused havoc and destruction.
Louisville got off easy compared to other parts of the state, while we got more than seven and a half inches of rain some areas totals ran into the double digits. Benton, the town I got to drive to the last time ol' Flash Flood came calling, got fifteen inches of rain in four days. Frankfort, the state capital, came within a couple feet of having its floodwall overtopped.
It's got a ways to go here before that happens, with the Ohio River supposed to crest tomorrow we're in no danger of that happening at least.
First responders have been busy with water rescues, even with the letup in the rain. The Ohio surrounded a hotel today and they had to evacuate more than sixty people.
The Flying Dutchman even drifted into town and dropped anchor on the Great Lawn. Ordinarily, this is a sea of grass, one that this time of year would be deep in the madness of preparing for Thunder Over Louisville. That air show and fireworks extravaganza has been known to fill the riverfront here with more than a half million people.
Due to the Dutchman's visit they called the whole thing off. Probably a good idea, Thunder is supposed to be the kickoff for the Kentucky Derby Festival but nobody wants to see a Floating Porta Pot Derby. Please pardon the shitty joke.
Crossed over into Indiana and wandered down to the Falls of the Ohio State Park. There wasn't really much in the way of falls to see, just Ohio River.
In drier weather you can walk to those first couple bridge pillars, albeit after navigating a steep bank.
Was practicing for my license while I was there, couldn't help but take a look from a better angle. For how it looks in drier days, see here.?
There were lots of folks out and about, taking photos and seeing things for themselves. From the looks of it, come hell or high water we'll still be right here.
