Recent flooding in Hopkinsville has left a significant mark on the community, damaging more than 150 homes, 25 businesses, and four government buildings after a relentless five-day downpour dumped over 14 inches of rain.
Local officials reported the extent of the damage on Monday, confirming that the Hopkinsville Police Department, Christian County Jail, the Restricted Custody Center, and the State Regional Driver’s License Office were among the government facilities affected by the rising waters.
14 Inches of Rain in 5 Days
According to data from the Hopkinsville Mesonet weather station, the area received a staggering 14.09 inches of rain between Wednesday and Sunday evening. The deluge overwhelmed drainage systems and swamped roads and buildings across the city.
Movie Theater Among Hardest Hit Businesses
The Showbox Dinner Theater and Cinemas, located behind Bradford Square shopping center, was one of the local businesses hit hardest. In a social media post on Sunday, owners said both the building and its parking lot experienced “massive flooding,” leaving all five screening rooms underwater.
Despite the damage, the theater’s management expressed hope of reopening by Thursday to screen new movie releases.
Coordinated Emergency Response
Christian County Emergency Manager Randy Graham praised the swift and coordinated response from local, state, and federal agencies.
“From city crews to state and federal resources, we’ve seen great coordination in protecting people and property,” Graham said in a statement from the city of Hopkinsville.
Efforts included rescue operations, use of high-axle emergency vehicles, sandbag deployment, and cleanup support. Officials confirmed that over 80 public assets throughout the city and county were protected by sandbags.
Hopkinsville Mayor James R. Knight Jr. added, “We would like to thank every agency, team member, and volunteer who has stepped up to help during this crisis. Recovery is still underway, but Hopkinsville is resilient — and we will get through this together.”
Debris Collection Underway
Hopkinsville Solid Waste crews have already started collecting storm-related debris from impacted neighborhoods. Residents are asked to sort items into two separate curbside piles:
- Furniture and Household Items: couches, mattresses, chairs, etc.
- Construction Debris: carpet, sheetrock, wood, insulation, etc.
Damage Reporting Encouraged
Local officials are urging homeowners and business owners to document and report any property damage. This is essential for securing potential state or federal assistance.
Residents should:
- Take clear, multiple photos of all damage (inside and out)
- List what was lost or affected
- Submit the information using the official online form as soon as possible
Road Hazards Still Present
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet issued updates on road conditions, with numerous high-water warnings still in place on Monday evening. Affected routes include:
- U.S. 41
- KY 107
- KY 115
- KY 117
- KY 272
- KY 345
- KY 400
- KY 695
- KY 813
- KY 1296
- KY 1338
- KY 1453
- KY 1914
- KY 3186
Motorists are urged to use caution and avoid submerged roads.
