RISING chronicles rebuilding efforts in Eastern Kentucky after deadly 2022 floods
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 30, 2026) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that Team Kentucky’s documentary, RISING, is now available to stream for free on Tubi, with proceeds going to the Team Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund, which assists Kentuckians affected by natural disasters and catastrophic events.
RISING tells the story of the strength and resilience of Eastern Kentuckians as they undertake the most ambitious rebuilding effort in the nation following the historic 2022 floods. The 60-minute film chronicles the joint commitment of Gov. Beshear and state and local leaders to rebuild homes for survivors on abandoned coal mine sites out of the floodplains. Now, eight high-ground communities are either completed or in progress, with new homes on higher ground, protected from future flooding.
“RISING shows what’s possible when people work together, show kindness and think outside of the box – and now, this inspiring story is available for everyone across the country to stream for free on Tubi,” said Gov. Beshear. “Following the deadly floods that devastated Eastern Kentucky in 2022, we’ve embarked on the most ambitious rebuild our country has ever seen. This film shows that story and what Kentuckians have achieved, providing hope to millions of Americans affected by natural disasters. RISING deserves to be shared, and I am grateful it’s available through Tubi.”
Last September, RISING premiered at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg. The film was then screened across the commonwealth in Frankfort, Lexington and Louisville. A brief theatrical run also followed, with showings in Elizabethtown, Franklin, Grand River, Inez, Owensboro and Pikeville, as well as Cincinnati, Ohio. Proceeds from the film screenings raised over $48,000 for the Team Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund. In July of this year, RISING also began streaming on Prime Video.
In July 2022, deadly flooding in Eastern Kentucky claimed the lives of 45 Kentuckians. This year, Gov. Beshear commemorated the anniversary with a visit to view progress at the high-ground communities. Work continues on these neighborhoods, with two already completed:
- Wayland high-ground community (Floyd County, 14 homes); and
- The Cottages at Thompson Branch (Letcher County, 10 homes).
In total, more than 500 homes are planned in the eight communities across five counties. This is in addition to houses being built in scattered sites throughout Eastern Kentucky.
Housing Can’t Wait Resource
Gov. Beshear is encouraging anyone who was impacted by the flooding of 2021, 2022 or 2025 to visit HousingCantWait.org and fill out an interest form. A team member from Fahe will get in touch with applicants, determine eligibility for Disaster Recovery housing and provide help with the housing process.
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