Historically, Eastern Kentucky has faced significant flooding issues. As moist air ascends the Appalachian mountains, it releases moisture into the valleys. However, during extreme rainfall, this water quickly flows into lowlands, causing many local streams to be overwhelmed. A study revealed an alarming number of fatalities during the catastrophic flood of 2022, which occurred near Troublesham Creek, a 168-mile tributary of the North Fork Kentucky River, impacted by historical mountaintop removal mining.

For numerous residents of Hazard, the increasing frequency of flooding has transformed lives. Once a thriving hub for coal production, the town’s economic prospects have drastically declined over recent decades, burdening long-time residents with both financial struggles and flood damage.

Eastmon, who has faced flood dangers since 2007, describes the trauma left by these events.

“Whether it’s witnessing someone stuck in a tree or seeing someone underwater, it affects you,” Eastmon shared. “Everyone here has been influenced in some capacity.”

Local volunteer firefighter Ronnie Dillion assisted in rescuing Craig, a flood victim near Trouble Creek in 2022. Dillion’s family has deep roots in Hazard, yet he plans to relocate to London, a sizable city approximately 60 miles west of Hazard. He mentioned that the recent flooding has been a breaking point for many residents who are already struggling.

The flood devastated Dillion’s home, creating a cave-in in part of the ceiling. He noted that rebuilding is particularly challenging due to the limited job opportunities available locally.

“This place is my home, but there aren’t many opportunities for younger people here,” Dillion lamented. “We can’t pursue our dreams or do what we love in this environment.”

According to the latest Census data, over 25% of Perry County residents live below the federal poverty line. At its peak in 1990, the coal industry employed over 29,000 individuals, but since then, Kentucky has lost approximately 85% of those jobs, as reported by Kentucky Statistics Center. In Perry County, employment fell by 23% in 2023.

Jason Naylor, a researcher at the University of Louisville focusing on climate change in Kentucky, points out that Eastern Kentucky is particularly susceptible to climate impacts and increased flooding.

“There are numerous social vulnerabilities,” Naylor noted.

Eastmon shares that some neighbors believe governmental actions contributed to the 2022 flood, and there’s a significant loss of faith in public officials within the community following the disaster. Eastmon herself has applied for a home-buying program in Perry County, hoping it will bring her closer to her children.

“I keep sharing our story, hoping someone will hear it and help us escape our situation,” she expressed.