QUICKSIE98.3

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear says the state is the first in the nation to have captured high-resolution aerial imagery of its entire geography. 

The governor’s office says free, public access to statewide aerial photography through the KyFromAbove Explorer is a benefit to the state’s disaster response, infrastructure, and economic development. Kentuckians can use the website to view top-down and side-angle photographs of all 120 counties, a total of more than 40,000 square miles.

The governor’s office says all of Kentucky’s certified 911 call centers have access to the program, which helps operators and first responders find and rescue people in distress. The images help emergency management leaders assess damage after natural disasters and find safer places to rebuild. The program can also be used for economic site development and selection, high-speed internet deployment, wildlife management, and the planning and development of infrastructure projects. 

The program has been in development since funding was allocated beginning in 2022. The governor’s office says all data in the program is made available in the public domain in order to reduce costs related to developing GIS applications.

Learn more about the program at kyfromabove.ky.gov.

The discovery of mosquitos carrying West Nile virus in Jefferson County is a reminder to take preventative measures when spending time outside. 

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness reported this week that mosquitos infected with West Nile virus were found in a surveillance trap in the Tyler Park neighborhood. While no human cases of the virus have been reported, health officials scheduled mosquito fogging for the neighborhoods in the area of the trap.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in most instances people infected with West Nile virus present no symptoms or mild symptoms. Serious infections, however, may result in neurologic illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis. People over 60 are at greatest risk for severe disease as are people with certain medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease.

When spending time outdoors, use insect repellents which contain DEET or picaridin. Weather-permitting, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors in mosquito-prone areas. Take extra care during early morning and dusk when mosquitos are more active. Help reduce the number of mosquitos by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, water dishes, and discarded tires. Drain bird baths regularly.

Contact your local health department for more information on West Nile virus.