Governor marks 6-month milestone in tornado recovery

A day before the six-month anniversary of the devastating December 10 tornadoes, Governor Andy Beshear shared the state's progress in providing relief and recovery support to those impacted by the storm.

He said it is estimated that federal, state and Red Cross disaster assistance efforts total more than $193.4 million. In addition, the commonwealth of Kentucky's efforts represents more than $108 million in awards through the SAFE Act Fund and the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund. The governor also said nearly 2,600 individuals had been housed through emergency programs.

"I will never forget the promise I made to the people of Western Kentucky the morning after the tornadoes hit, which is that we will be there until every home and life is rebuilt," said Beshear. "We are keeping that promise. We not only have made substantial progress, but we are also continuing our efforts to ensure these communities have a hopeful, bright future."

On Friday, six months after the deadly tornadoes, the governor will travel to Mayfield to help celebrate the first fully constructed new homes.

Photo courtesy of the Governors Office.