WASHINGTON — US President Joe Biden declared Friday that a "major disaster" exists in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and ordered Federal aid "to supplement commonwealth and local recovery efforts" in the areas affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

"Damage assessments are continuing in other areas and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed," the White House said in a statement.

Kentucky's Governor Andy Beshear said today that at least 15 people have died in Appalachian flooding and that the death toll may increase. "The flooding situation in Eastern Kentucky is ongoing, with a flood watch in effect through today," the Governor tweeted.

He added "heartbreakingly, we can confirm at least 15 deaths, but we expect that number to grow. Over 23,000 Kentuckians are without power. — Agencies