Madison County officials declared a State of Emergency on Saturday as heavy rains led to flash floods throughout the County, leaving three dead and at least one person missing, according to a County official. "It has been a devastating day in Madison County," Deputy Judge Executive Jill Williams said in a media advisory.

Flood related 911 calls began shortly after 9:00 am, according to Williams,
As conditions worsened, County officials activated their emergency response activities and resource deployment.The State of Emergency is in effect until further notice.

Although the National Weather Service in Louisville has ended its flash flood warning, a flood watch is in effect across the region until tomorrow at 8:00 am.

"While some floodwaters have begun to recede in certain locations, many roadways remain flooded, damaged, or unsafe for travel," Williams said in the statement. "Emergency crews continue to assess conditions throughout Madison County, and water levels may continue to fluctuate in some areas. Residents should not assume a roadway is safe simply because water appears to have diminished."

The Edge's media partner, WBONTV, has reported that County Coroner Jimmy Cornelison has confirmed three people are dead, with two of the deaths occurring within the Richmond City limits. The third death occurred near Tate's Creek.

Multiple vehicles have been washed away by the floods, and the County is reporting extensive damage to County roads. Several structures have either collapsed or been severely damaged by the waters. WBONTV is also reporting downed trees and power outages in portions of the County as well as lightning damage in some areas.

"We're incredibly grateful to the more than 15 agencies that have responded to help work alongside Madison County Fire and EMA. That is what is supposed to happen anytime that disaster strikes," Williams told The Edge in an interview, speaking about the mutual aid being delivered to the County by local, regional, and state agencies.

Williams also told The Edge that rescue and clean-up crews are still responding to the disaster, and urged that County residents stay home, "People think that if it looks like the waters have receded it's okay to go out and have a look, but it is still very dangerous, and we also want to prevent any interference with our crews," Williams said.

The following areas are currently closed due to flooding:

• Tates Creek Road
• Red House Road
• Union City
• Four Mile Road/Hunter Lane
• Curtis Pike
• Concord Road
• Crutcher Pike
• Old Town Branch Area
• Armitage Drive/Lancaster Road
• Eastern Bypass and KY-52 at Catalpa Loop
• Spurlin Trailer Area
• Bradberry Point
• Miller Drive/Red House
• Blackwell Court
• Hanover Street
• Meadowlark Drive