Living through the devastation of a flood like the Tug Valley went through a couple of weeks ago is very tough, both mentally and physically.
Those affected have the psychological stress to go through when trying to evaluate the destruction. They have to figure out where to start. Cleaning up the mud and muck is usually the first step.
Then replacing furniture, appliances and other household items is at the top of the list.
It is also very difficult for people physically to have to toil through the mess and clean up. Many of those hit hard by the terrible, muddy floodwaters of the Tug Fork River and its tributaries are the older generation. So it is even tougher and more difficult for those residents.
Of course, the valley is no stranger to this kind of disaster. We have suffered devastation from floods in 1977, 1984 and now 2025. There were other “minor” floods over the years, such as flash flooding from the creeks that destroyed homes, trailers and businesses.
It is fantastic to see organizations like the American Red Cross and Franklin Grahm’s Samaritan’s Purse come into areas and offer assistance.
It is also wonderful to see all of the local churches, organizations and volunteers set up locations for those residents to get cleaning supplies, clothing and just a hot meal.
It warmed my heart to see some of the members of several high school and middle school sports teams volunteer to help people shovel mud out of their homes. There are truly many great kids out there in the world.
Although it sometimes takes a few days, it is great to see federal organizations like FEMA provide help and assistance. If you are like me, you may not be patient, especially at a time like this. But eventually help will come from the state and federal government.
Many questioned why Kentucky was declared a federal disaster area a few days before neighboring West Virginia counties. But sometimes the red tape and paperwork take some time. It’s unfortunate, but that is just the way things work.
Our local counties of Martin, Pike and Mingo are included in the disaster aid and we hope that some of the surrounding counties will be included sooner than later.
Many of our friends and neighbors are still trying to rebound from this most recent flooding disaster. It makes you tear up when thinking about what these folks are going through.
Many of them are going through it again after being flooded in the past.
We were blessed not to have any deaths in Mingo and Martin counties. However, Pike County did have some and other counties like McDowell had three. Meanwhile, Kentucky has had 24 deaths associated with the flooding to date.
When disaster strikes, your actions can mean the difference between life and death. Knowing how to respond quickly is essential. When in doubt, get out and head for higher ground. Don’t drive through floodwaters and always have a plan of action if your home is prone to flooding.
My wife Vicki and I were just recently talking about how most geographic areas have some kind of natural disaster to worry about. Tornadoes in the south and Midwest, hurricanes in the coastal areas, wildfires out west and for us, it is and always has been flooding.
Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly and have crushing consequences.
After the immediate threat has passed, rebuilding and returning to normalcy can be a long and difficult process. Sometimes it takes months and even years.
Our faith and willpower can and will help us get through this trying time. Continued prayers for all of those affected in our region.
(Kyle Lovern is a longtime journalist in the Tug Valley. He is now a retired freelance writer and columnist for the Mountain Citizen.)