Downed Trees Everywhere: Emergency Personnel Working All Across County

A downed tree limb in Chalybeate on New Grove Road after severe thunderstorms came through the county on April 13, 2022.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Severe thunderstorms and high winds blasted through the county earlier this evening with plenty more rain and wind in the forecast for tonight.

Local emergency personnel are currently working all over Edmonson County, clearing debris and downed trees.

Sheriff Shane Doyle gave an update on what emergency workers are tending to tonight.

"Every fire department is out right now. They're everywhere," he said. "There are trees down all over the county with debris everywhere. We've got some structural damage here and there, but thankfully, nothing too severe at this time. We've had one report of a vehicle accident, with a driver vs. a fallen tree, but no injuries. All deputies and myself are currently out working multiple scenes."

Chalybeate area around 6:45PM looking northwest, just as storms were landing in the county.

Sheriff Doyle said if anyone has to be out tonight to use extreme caution.

"If at all possible, we ask that everyone stay off the roads if you can, but if you do have to be out, please be aware of the low visibility and you could be on top of a downed tree or debris with very little time to react. I want to thank all our fire departments and first responders for the jobs they've done tonight. Also our dispatch center has been extremely busy all day. They've been nothing but great. We are fortunate to have the personnel in Edmonson County that we have. We wish everyone a safe night tonight."

Fire departments have already had a long day as the morning began with a structure fire on Otter Gap Road that claimed a house. Six fire departments worked at the scene throughout the day and then a rekindle had the rubble fully engulfed again later this evening. ​