Pikeville is the hub of eastern Kentucky's coal country, situated in a narrow mountain valley where flash flooding is a severe and recurring hazard. The city famously moved a mountain in the 1980s to create flat land — the largest earth-moving project in US history — demonstrating the extreme terrain constraints. Coal slurry impoundments and mine subsidence add environmental and structural hazard layers throughout the surrounding mountains.
// Preparedness Recommendations
- Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
- Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
- Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
- Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.
// Recommended Supplies
Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.
- Emergency Food Supplies
- Water Filtration & Storage
- Backup Generator
- Solar Backup Power
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// Risk Intelligence
| Threat Score | 6 / 10 Moderate |
| Primary Hazard | Flash Flood / Coal Mining |
| FEMA Flood Zone | Zone AE (High Risk) |
| County FEMA Declarations | 40 |
| Last Major Event | Eastern Kentucky Floods (2022) |
// Emergency Information
| Emergency Phone | 606-218-8046 |
| Evacuation Routes | US-23 North, US-460 West, KY-80 West, KY-119 South |
| Elevation | 640 ft above sea level |
// County Risk Profile
Pike County KY
Kentucky · Flash Flooding / Landslide
View full county emergency preparedness profile →
7/10
High Risk