After heavy rains, the number of dead in the US state of Kentucky has risen to eight people.
"This is an ongoing natural disaster and further rain is expected tonight which could make the situation worse," said Gov. Andy Beshear. He could not say how many people were still missing, he told CNN partner broadcaster WLEX. Rescue workers are still busy gaining access to certain areas.
Beshear previously declared a state of emergency and spoke of one of the "worst and most devastating flood events in Kentucky history." Hundreds of homes are expected to be destroyed. Pictures showed flooded streets and washed away cars. People were rescued from the air by helicopters. According to Beshear, all available rescue workers were mobilized. Three state parks would be opened for people whose houses were no longer habitable. Tens of thousands are without electricity.
