Mayfield, Ky.–Saying “This has been one of the toughest nights in Kentucky’s history, with multiple counties impacted and a significant loss of life,” Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency and asked President Joe Biden for an immediate federal emergency declaration.
In his letter to President Biden, Beshear cited Mayfield as one of the hardest hit areas, with multiple fatalities and businesses and residences destroyed.
Beshear said early this morning it is believed at least 50 people have died in the Mayfield area in Graves County, where a candle factory collapsed. He later increased to estimate to over 70 fatalities.
Gov. Andy Beshear said, “This is the most severe weather event in Kentucky’s history. The primary tornado was on the ground for more than 200 miles.”
Among the public buildings destroyed in Mayfield is the Graves County Courthouse and the post office.