Flood — Knox, Kentucky

2003-02-16 to 2003-02-18 · Knox, Kentucky

Event narrative

At 0930 EST, February 17, the Cumberland River at Barbourville crested at 36.38 feet. This is 9.38 feet above flood stage.

Wider weather episode

Widespread heavy rainfall fell across the region from February 14th through February 16th. This resulted in moderate to major flooding across the Kentucky, Cumberland, Big Sandy, and Licking River Basins. River crests at many locations were the highest since May, 1984. Three day rainfall totals in excess of four inches were prevalent during this event, with amounts of five to six inches being reported in portions of the Kentucky and Licking Basins. This caused millions of dollars worth of property damage.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5345349. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.