Roughly 100,000 Kentuckians were without power Friday as the heavy rain and strong winds moved through the state with the remnants of Hurricane Helene.
Wind gusts were reaching 50 to 60 miles per hour on Friday afternoon, and several residents statewide reported downed trees and other damage.
In Lexington, the weather cut power at many schools, including Christ the King School, which sent students home before 11 a.m. Friday.
Fayette County Public Schools announced all afternoon and evening school activities, including athletics and extracurricular, were canceled on Friday.
Superintendent Demetrus Liggins warned in a midday email that “there may be some delays in bus routes this afternoon as our Transportation staff will be exercising extra caution. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to ensure our children return home safely after a day of productive learning.”
While tornadoes likely won’t be a concern, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said at a news conference Friday, wind gusts are. Beshear said sunny breaks in the clouds will increase the chances of higher, more dangerous winds.