FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency Wednesday morning, ahead of the first round of severe storms that are expected to last for four days.

The storm is especially concerning in far western Kentucky, which is going to see potentially historic amounts of rain through Saturday. Strong winds with the possibility of tornadoes are in the forecast for much of Kentucky, into Thursday. Western Kentucky is currently under a rare high risk of severe weather, Level 5 on the Storm Prediction Center’s scale of 1 to 5, which includes a 30-44 percent chance of tornadoes, along with high winds and hail.

That part of Kentucky along and west of Interstate 65 is in a moderate risk area (Level 4), while central Kentucky has an enhanced risk (Level 3).

The governor is urging all Kentuckians to find a safe place to stay tonight. “Tornadoes are expected, and I know that’s tough to hear. And we are most concerned about the area of western Kentucky that has gotten hit far too much, as well as a wider area of western Kentucky. Remember, these can be strong tornadoes, EF-2 and greater. We’re really concerned about people’s safety, especially in the overnight hours, because when storms or tornadoes hit while people are asleep, that’s sadly when we’ve lost the most people. So, everybody out there, be really careful.”

Major flooding is also expected over the weekend, due to the continued forecast of heavy rain through at least Saturday.

The governor has taken action by activating the Kentucky Emergency Operations Center and units of the Kentucky National Guard to stand ready to respond. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials and crews are also on alert, and local emergency management leaders are working to keep Kentuckians everywhere informed.

As part of the state of emergency, Gov. Beshear also implemented the state’s price-gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they clean up and recover from the storm. Consumers should report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General.

Drivers are urged to check traffic conditions before traveling at GoKy.ky.gov.

For additional severe weather preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.