"SURFACE WATER BRANCH UBMfn*

, RESOURCES DIVISION .. j

^^MryfcOTio longer need this publication write to the Geological Surrey in Washington 

for an official label to use in returning it.

I

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

Pan 2. FLOOD OF JULY 5, 1939

IN EASTERN KENTUCKY

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATEIt SUPPLY PAPER 967-B

181973 LIBRARY

Return to Rot. 132 A1

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR |

Harold L. Ickes, Secretary 

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 

W. E. Wrather, Director WATER RESOURCES D3

____ REPORTS SECTION 

Water-Supply Paper 967-B

NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

PART 2. FLOOD OF JULY 5, 1939 

IN EASTERN KENTUCKY

by 

FLOYD F. SCHRADER

UNITED STATES

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 

WASHINGTON : 1945

For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U. S. Government Printing Office, 

Washington 25, D. C., Price, 10 cents
:1
CONTENTS

Page

Abstract ............................................... ........... ...... 41

Introduction ........................................................>.... .. 42

Acknowledgments ........ . ................................................ 43

Description of storm........................................................ 44

Rainfall .................... ......................................... 45

Flood discharge ........................................................... 51

General features .................................................... - 51

Peak discharge measurements....................... .................. 52

Summary ............................................................. 53

Measurements by Geological Survey................................ 53

Measurements by Corps of Engineers.............................. 54

Estimates of maximum rate of flood flow. .......................... 55

Gaging-station records ...........................;....................... 55

Index ....................................................... ........... 59

ILLUSTRATIONS

Page

Plate 7. Damage to buildings in Morehead by floodwaters of Triplett Creek: 

A, Home overturned by force of flood flow; B, Store forced from 

foundation .......................................... Facing p. 58

8. Damage to bridges on Triplett Creek and Cope Fork: A, Wash-out 

of railroad bridge on Triplett Creek near Morehead; B, Remains 

of Cockrell Bridge over Cope Fork on State Highway 15 . Facing p. 58

9. Map of eastern Kentucky showing location of observations of rainfall and isohyetals for total precipitation July 4-5, 1939, and location of stream-gaging stations and miscellaneous measurements 

of flood flow .......................................Facing p. 58

10. A, Receding floodwaters of Triplett Creek; B, View of Frozen 

Creek at mouth showing sand deposits and stripped vegetation

Facing p. 58

11. A, Boone Fork, in Frozen Creek Basin, showing thick deposit of

mud; B, Erosion on hillside in Wolfe County........ Facing p. 58

Figure 6. Discharge hydrographs at gaging stations in Kentucky and Licking

River Basins ................................................ 58

7. Stage hydrographs at gaging stations in Kentucky and Licking

River Basins ................................................ 58

III

NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

Part 2. FLOOD OF JULY 5, 1939, IN EASTERN KENTUCKY

By FLOYD F. SCHRADER

ABSTRACT

In a period of a few hours during the night of July 4-5, 1939, there occurred in 

eastern Kentucky an exceptionally severe storm attended by precipitation reaching 

cloudburst proportions. The storm was somewhat limited in areal extent and principally affected the counties of Lewis, Fleming, Carter, Rowan, Elliott, Menifee, 

Morgan, Wolfe, Magoffin, and Breathitt in the upper reaches of the Kentucky, 

Licking, and Little Sandy River Basins and Tygarts Creek Basin. The resultant 

runoff from the storm produced flood stages and discharges on the small streams of 

this region exceeding any previously witnessed, and the computed unit discharges 

for headwater and small tributary streams were higher than any heretofore obtained 

in Kentucky. Although the, runoff was intense at many locations, it was apparently 

greatest in the Triplett and Frozen Creek areas in Rowan and Breathitt Counties.

Descriptions of the rainfall, including such phrases as "continuous sheets of 

water" and "creating a complete lack of visibility," indicate that the intensity was 

exceptionally high for short periods and that in some localities this intense rate of 

rainfall was maintained for a period of almost an hour.

The conditions of stream channels and overflow sections was considered evidence 

of the unusually high rates of flow. These indications of exceptional runoff were 

verified by measurements of discharge, principally by the slope-area method. The 

field data for the computations were obtained shortly after the flood at a number. 

of places in the Triplett and Frozen Creek Basins. The .drainage areas at the 

various locations ranged from less than 5 square miles to 75 square miles, and the 

results computed by the slope-area method showed a peak discharge exceeding 

2,000 second-feet per square mile on one or more small streams draining -areas of 

less than 10 square miles. /

There were no stream-gaging stations in the area of high runoff, and accordingly 

no record was available showing the rapid rise and recession of the flood on any 

of the small streams. Except for one station with a drainage area of 140 square 

miles, none of the drainage areas for the half dozen or more gaging stations in the 

general region were less than 350 square miles.

According to a survey by the Corps of Engineers, United States Army, the 

damage resulting from the storm and flood was caused principally by the high 

velocities and extreme flows in overflow channels and by the heavy deposits of 

debris* The greatest damage occurred in the vicinity of Jackson in Breathitt County, 

of Morehead in R6wan County, and in parts of Lewis and Carter Counties. The 

damage in these four counties was estimated at nearly $2,000,000. A total of 78 

persons lost their lives over the entire storm area.

41
42 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

INTRODUCTION

The storm of July 4-5, 1939, in eastern .Kentucky was of brief duration 

but extreme intensity, and it produced unusual flood flows in the streams 

of Carter, Rowan, Elliott, Morgan, Wolfe and Breathitt Counties over 

parts of the Kentucky and Licking River Basins and Tygarts Creek Basin. 

The storm commenced late in the evening of July 4, reached maximum 

intensity during the early morning hours of July 5, and had passed before 

daybreak. The unusual occurrence is described as a series of violent 

thunderstorms accompanied by continuous and brilliant lightning and 

extremely hard rains. The exceptionally heavy downpours resulted in 

rainfall depths for the brief storm period probably exceeding any previously known for a similar period in Kentucky. Although reliable measurements of rainfall depths at or near the center of the storm were not 

available, it was estimated on the basis of descriptions by local residents 

and reliable information in adjacent areas that depths of rainfall exceeding 

12 inches and possibly approaching 20 inches occurred at the center of 

the storm. The rainfall was so intense that it was described as creating 

a complete lack of visibility.

The area that produced high flood runoff was irregular in shape, 

roughly 10 to 20 miles wide and 60 miles long, and extended northward 

from the vicinity of Jackson in Breathitt County, east-central Kentucky, 

nearly to the center of Lewis County, adjacent to the Ohio River. Frozen 

and Triplett Creeks, tributaries of North Fork Kentucky River and 

Licking River, respectively, probably produced the greatest rates of flow, 

although there were indications on many other small streams that exceptionally high discharges occurred there also.

Stream-flow records were obtained from a few gaging stations on the 

main streams or large tributary streams of the Kentucky and Licking 

Rivers. The smallest drainage area of any of these gaging stations was 

140 square miles and the next smallest 363 square miles. Several of the 

stations were on the edge of the area of high runoff. Only small parts 

of the several drainage areas for these stations were affected by the 

storm; most of the stream flows at the gaging stations came from those, 

parts of the basins where the runoff was relatively light. Accordingly, no 

continuous stream-flow record directly reflected the unusual flood conditions on the smalltributary streams. Information for these gaging stations 

is provided in other sections of the report.

The damage and loss of life from the storm and flood, considering1 the 

small size of area affected and the relatively sparse population, were 

exceptionally large. Although rural property and crops suffered the 

greatest damage, transportation facilities were disrupted, communication 

lines were torn down, and stores, merchandise, homes and schools were 

destroyed or damaged. (See pis. 7, 8.) Most-of the damage was caused by 

the high velocity and large flow in overflow channels and by deposits of 

debris. Some damage to crops and soil was caused by surface and gully 

erosion. The greatest damage occurred in the vicinity of Jacksoa in 

Breathitt County, of Morehead in Rowan County, in the southeastern 

part of Lewis County, and in the southwestern part of Carter County. 

Over the entire storm area 78 persons lost their lives. The greatest loss 

of life occurred near Jackson, Ky., the greatest property damage in
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 43

Morehead, Ky., and the greatest crop damage in Lewis and Carter 

Counties. A survey of the damage in Breathitt, Rowan, Lewis, and Carter 

Counties indicated that the total loss in those four counties was approximately $2,000,000. The smaller losses in Bath, Johnson, Wolfe, Mason, 

and Clark Counties were not estimated. The information on flood losses 

and damages contained herein is based on a survey conducted by field 

parties of the Cincinnati District Office, Corps of Engineers, United 

States Army.

In view of the outstanding characteristics of this flood it was considered 

desirable to prepare a report containing all information available on both 

the storm and the flood. Before undertaking such a report, thorough 

consideration was given to the uncertainties regarding the exact amount 

of the extraordinary rainfall and runoff that were associated with this 

storm and flood. The data for the slope-area measurements of discharge 

indicate a degree of uncertainty regarding the interpretation of some of 

the essential base data that subjects the results to a margin of error that 

seems unusually high. Perhaps the principal reason for this uncertainty 

was caused by the inability to obtain adequate base data.

The opportunities for securing data during the storm and flood were 

extremely limited, owing to the short duration and to the fact that they 

occurred at night and were confined to so small an area. Consequently, 

the data presented are the result of subsequent surveys. Within the region 

of intense precipitation there were no trained or experienced observers to 

report on, the storm, but many inhabitants provided vivid descriptions and 

furnished information on the rainfall, such as the depth of water found 

in uncovered pails, tubs, jars, and other containers.

In view of the uncertainties concerning the interpretation and reliability 

of the base data this report has been prepared to show by description and 

quantitative generalities, rather than by statistics and specific quantities, 

the magnitude of the storm and flood.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The Cincinnati District Office, Corps of Engineers, United States 

Army, has furnished a substantial part of the information for this report, 

including descriptions on which much of the written material is based. 

Practically all of the data on precipitation was collected and compiled in 

that office. Most of the data on rainfall collected by trained observers was 

furnished by the United States Weather Bureau.

Base data obtained by the Geological Survey were collected under the 

direction of F. M. Veatch, district engineer until March 12, 1940, and 

the report was prepared under the direction of J. V. B. Wells, district 

engineer since March 13, 1940. This work was performed in connection 

with the program of stream-gaging carried on in the State of Kentucky 

in cooperation with the Kentucky Department of Highways, J. L. 

Donaldson, commissioner, and with financial assistance by the Corps of 

Engineers, United States Army.

R. W. Davenport, chief of the Division of Water Utilization, and 

Hollister Johnson, engineer, Albany district, provided valuable advice and 

assistance in directing the general outline and final preparation of the
44 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

report and in collecting the field data and computing the results. The 

personnel of the Louisville district assisted in the collection and compilation of data.

DESCRIPTION OF STORM

The characteristics of the storm are well defined because its unusual 

aspects attracted the attention of many people. Although generally considered as a single storm, it actually consisted of a series of thunderstorms 

accompanied by almost continuous lightning and thunder, which were 

noticeable for a considerable time before the storm. The lightning was 

described as continuous lightning and sheet lightning and by several 

observers as the most persistent they had ever witnessed. The thunder 

preceding the storm was a low rumble and at the height of the storm is 

reported to have shaken the earth. The lightning was so continuous that, 

despite the fact that the storm occurred at night in most localities, the 

cloud formations could be viewed without difficulty in what is described 

as a purplish hue. Although in a turbulent state, these cloud formations 

had a distinct outline and could be seen approaching from the north at a 

rapid rate.

On the edge of the storm area winds reached gale proportions such 

that buildings were damaged and in several places were entirely destroyed. 

Reports indicate that there was relatively little wind outside of the storm 

area, and observers at the storm centers reported that little or no wind 

accompanied the rainfall. According to information obtained from weather 

stations, the prevailing direction of the wind was to the southwest on the 

northeast side of the storm area, to the northeast on the southwest side, 

and variable on the northwest and southeast sides.

The meteorology of the storm has been described as follows :*

On July 2 a widespread stagnant anticyclone circulation was associated with typical 

warm dry weather over eastern United States. * * *

The synoptic data for the period July 3-5, inclusive, show a slow eastward progression of a weak cold front. This front did not produce sharp wind shifts at the 

surface, but scanty radiosonde data suggest that aloft the front was followed by a 

narrow tongue of cold air. On the night of July 4-5, this tongue was being displaced southeastward across Ohio and Indiana. * * * The cold air was being rotated 

cyclonically around a center in southern Michigan, while to the southeast the warm 

air was undergoing an anticyclonic rotation. The net result of the two circulations 

was to produce a field of strong convergence over eastern Kentucky, which in turn 

caused the vertical motions necessary to set off the convective energy and to produce the rainfall. * * *

The displacements of the centers of convergence and rainfall coincide. Over small 

areas the average rate of radial inflow from the surface to 8,000 feet for a 

period of 12 hours was approximately 5 miles per hour. Such inflow velocities are 

sufficient to explain the rates of precipitation for the 6-hour period over the storm 

area as a whole, but the intense rainfall near the center of the storm would require 

either higher rates of inflow or the transport into the area of Suspended liquid water. 

Either one or both of these could be possible in such a circumstance. 

Analysis of the mean motion in the layer from 8,000 to 12,000 feet above the 

storm area showed weak outflow velocities before and weak inflow velocities after 

10 p.m. Velocity profiles computed from the above data indicate that the upper limit

1 "Maximum possible precipitation over the Ohio River Basin above Pittsburgh, Pa.," prepared by the Hydrometeorological Section of the Weather Bureau in cooperation with the 

Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army, June 16, 1941: Hydrometeorological Report No 2, pp. 56-62,, 

Vicksburg, Miss. [1942].
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 45

of the convergence layer had risen approximately 1,000 feet to a height somewhat in 

excess of 10,000 feet.

The outstanding features'of this storm were:

a. A large supply of convectively unstable tropical maritime air, retaining its 

original characteristics and transported into the region by a widespread stagnant 

circulation previously accompanied by dry weather.

b. A flow of relatively colder air into the area from the north or northwest.

c. The interaction of these currents to produce a center of intense convergence.

d. The explosive release of energy in the tropical air after saturation.

RAINFALL

The rates of precipitation produced by this storm were extremely high 

and exceeded any known to have occurred previously in the region 

affected. The rainfall is described by observers as having been so intense 

that it was impossible to see objects only a few feet away. People caught 

out in the storm were compelled to stop before reaching shelter because 

of the lack of visibility. Numerous accounts were 'given of runoff that 

covered the sloping ground in sheets. Although the rain did not fall at a 

continuous high rate throughout the storm, high rates apparently were 

maintained in some localities for periods as long as an hour. These periods 

of sustained intensity occurred near the end of the storm. During such 

periods the rainfall was alternately in the form of large drops and of 

continuous sheets of water similar to those coming from the eaves of 

a roof.

A great deal of information was obtained from inhabitants of the 

storm area on the nature an$ extent of precipitation. From this information the average length of the period of rainfall in the storm area was 

determined to be about 3 hours. In some localities the rain commenced as 

early as 9 a.m. on July 4 and in other localities ended as late as 6 a.m. on 

July 5. However, the consensus of reports shows that the rainfall was 

principally concentrated in a 3-hour period from 1 a.m. to, 4 a.m. on July 5.

As the storm occurred at night, much of the information on the duration 

of rainfall is somewhat inexact, and several observations at the center of 

the storm area (showing extremely brief periods of rainfull during the 

early morning hours) are probably of questionable accuracy. Data on the 

beginning and ending of rainfall on the night of July 4, 1939, as compiled 

from statements of local residents, are listed below:

Location Duration of rainfall 

Portsmouth, Greenup County...... .1:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. July 5

Vanceburg, Lewis County.........6:15 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. July 4

Mount Sterling, Montgomery

County ........................ 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. July 5

Olive Hill, Carter County, 11 miles 

west 'of ........................ 10:30 p.m. July 4 to 12:30 a.m. July 5

Grayson, Carter County............9 p.m. to 11 p.m. July 4

Morehead, Rowan County.......... 11 p.m. July 4 to 12:30 a.m. July 5

Frenchburg, Menifee County....... 1:30 a.m. to 3 :45 a.m. July 5

Wellington, Menifee County..:.... .10 p.m. July 4 to 2 a.m. July 5

Maytown, Morgan County.........2 a.m. to 3 a.m. July 5

Index, Morgan County............ 11 p.m. July 4 to 3 a.m. July 5

Bowen, , Powell County, (Peckerwood CCC camp).............. 2 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. July 5

Hazel Green, Wolfe County.......! a.m. to 3 a.m. July 5
46 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

Location Duration of rainfall 

Daysboro, Wolfe County. .......... 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5

Trent, Wolfe County.............. 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5

Stillwater, Wolfe County l/2 mile

south of ........................ 12 p.m. July 4 to 5 a.m. July 5

Salyersville, Magoffin County......! a.m. to 5 a.m. July 5

Town Flat, Magoffin County. ....... 12 p.m. July 4 to 3 a.m. July 5

Wilhurst, Breathitt County..'...... 11:30 p.m. July 4 to 3 :30 a.m. July 5

Near Taulbee, Breathitt County,

9% miles above Blanton Bridge.. 1:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. July 5 

Near Taulbee, Breathitt County,

5 miles above Blanton Bridge. .. .1 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5 

Near Taulbee, Breathitt County,

1% miles above Blanton Bridge... 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5 

Near Frozen Creek, Breathitt County,

on Strong Fork.................. 2 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5

Near Frozen Creek, Breathitt County,

*4 miles from Strong Fork

School ......................... 1:30 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5

Jackson, Breathitt County......... .3 a.m. to 6 a.m. July 5

Jackson, Breathitt County......... .3 :30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. July 5

Quicksand, Breathitt County.......3 a.m. to 6 a.m. July 5

Near Rousseau, Breathitt County,

on Quicksand Creek.............2:30 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5

Near Stevenson, Breathitt County,

on Meatscaffold Creek........... 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. July 5

Near Quicksand, Breathitt County, on

South Fork of Quicksand Creek. .2:30 a.m. to 5 a.m. July 5

As there were no rainfall stations within the region of most intense 

precipitation, field parties were assigned to obtain from local residents 

all available information on rainfall depth. The greater number of the 

measurements represent the depth of water collected in pails, tubs, jars, 

and other containers, which were generally near the residence or other 

buildings on the property. As most of these containers were in daily use 

by their owners, they had been emptied of their contents before the field 

parties could obtain first-hand information. Consequently, very few direct 

measurements of the depth of water were obtained, and most of the data 

collected consisted of statements and estimates by residents concerning 

the depth of water, conditions of exposure, and other factors. Much of 

this information is of little value if each observation is considered separately, but it is valuable in the aggregate for study of the storm as a whole.

It would appear, that with plentiful observations of the rainfall, reliable 

determination of the maximum depth would be relatively simple. However, there was a wide range in the quality of the observations, many of 

which were obtained by untrained persons and were undoubtedly affected 

to such an extent by local conditions or other factors that it was necessary 

to reject them as unreliable. This was particularly true of a few observations indicating extraordinary depths near the center of the storm area. 

Nevertheless, the data unquestionably indicate that the rainfall was extraordinarily deep over relatively large central areas during the brief 

storm period.

As the available information was not sufficient to establish definitely 

the maximum rainfall depths it was believed desirable to indicate the 

possible extent of the maximum. An analysis showed that the rainfall 

probably exceeded 12 inches and that it may have been as much as 20 

inches at the center of the storm. A few observations greatly exceeded
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 47

12 inches but were not accepted as reliable because of unfavorable conditions under which they were obtained and their poor correlation with 

adjacent data. However, these observations were considered in estimating 

the possible maximum depths at the center of the storm. Other factors 

that were considered in estimating the possible extent of the maximum 

depth are the very unusual runoff and the fact that such a storm usually 

has near its center one or more relatively small areas in which the rainfall 

depth greatly exceeds the depth in the surrounding area.

In order to classi'fy the rainfall data on a uniform basis it was necessary 

to establish certain criteria that could be applied to any of the observations, irrespective of the depth of rainfall reported. Accordingly, all 

observations were first separated into two classifications (1) those 

acceptable for use in the report and (2) those to be rejected and omitted 

from the report.

The comparatively small number of observations rejected included all 

those obtained under one or more of the following unfavorable conditions : 

Receptacle under tree, on porch or porch step, or near building; receptacle 

leaked or was not empty prior to storm; receptacle not seen, and not of 

standard shape, or dimensions not known; rough approximation of depth 

of water reported where receptacle and its location were not seen by field 

party; and poor correlation with adjacent data, that is, the reported depth 

of rainfall differed too widely from several acceptable observations in the 

immediate vicinity.

The large group of accepted observations was subdivided into four 

smaller groups, A D, with each observation classified either as of acceptable reliability or uncertain reliability and, also, according to the method 

of ascertaining depth of water in receptacle. In general, observations were 

considered of acceptable reliability if the depth was measured (group A) 

or if the receptacle overflowed and if the receptacle and its location were 

observed by the field party (group B). Observations* considered to be of 

uncertain reliability included all those obtained under the following 

conditions: Depth an estimate or approximation, or reported measurement 

of doubtful accuracy (group C) ; receptacle overflowed, but receptacle and 

its location not observed by field party (group D). All measurements 

of rainfall reported by Weather Bureau stations were automatically classified in group A.

The table of rainfall data that follows includes all observations accepted, 

classified in the four groups, A to D, according to the procedure outlined 

in the preceding paragraph. For each observation listed, information is 

given on the location, depth of rainfall, and method of measurement. The 

location of each point of observation is shown by a solid circle on plate 9, 

with the reference number given in the first column of the table. Where 

more than one observation was made at the same location only one number 

appears on the map, but each observation is listed separately in the table 

with an added reference letter as "26a, 26b." For all observations the 

depth of rainfall in inches was computed by taking into account the depth 

of water in the container, the shape and dimensions of the container, and 

the area of the top opening. Where the container was of standard shape 

and' size but was not seen by the field party, a similar container was 

measured.
48 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

Rainfall during night of July 4-5, 1939, in eastern Kentucky, as compiled from

statements of local residents and from U. S. Weather Bureau records'1

Group A. Acceptable reliability: Measured depth

No.

on 

pi. 9

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

County

Lewis _____

Greenup.. .......

Carter _____

do _______

do. ____ .

Fleming. ._.. 

Rowan _____

do ____ ..

do ____ .

do ____ .

do _ 

Bath ____ .. Menifee... 

Morgan .........

Magoffin........

Wolfe.. 

do _ _ _____

Powell .._.

Clark _____

Estill ___ -

Lee ____ 

do ___

Breathitt.. .

do..._......._....

Perry

Location

Drainage basin

Ohio River _____ .

...... -do... .. _ -

Little Sandy RiverTygarts Creek._.._.......

_ ....... do .... ......

Licking River.. __ ...-

Triplett Creek. __ ...'.

. __ do.. __ ._..... _ .....- .

__ do... ___ . __ ......._-.-

__ do... ____

Licking River.......... .

... ...do ...._._.. ..

__ .do.. ___ .-.... __ .

_...do .__. . .. ...

. . do _ ...... ... .

North Fork

Kentucky River.....

__ do... _______ .....

Red River...-..........!.'..'....

Kentucky River..........

. _ ..do. __ .........._....... _ .

__ do. _____ ____. .

__ do _______ ........

North Fork

Kentucky River...

_ .... do _____ .._............

do .

Rainfall

(inches)

1.5

.2

2.8

4.4

9.8

1.2

7.3

6.7

7.4

5.3

2.6

3.1

4.1

3.0

3.8

6.9

4.2

2.8

1.4

2.9

1.0

1.1

3.8

4.3

1.1

Method of measurement

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Vanceburg, Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Greenup,

Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Grayson,

Ky.

Measured in lard can by editor of local

paper.

Measured in stone crock by field party.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Flemingsburg, Ky.

Measured in No. 3 washtub by sawmill

owner. 2

Measured in No. 2 washtub by local resident.

U; S. Weather Bureau gage at CCC camp

near Morehead, Ky..

Measured in bucket by local resident.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Farmers,

Ky. 

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at .Yale, Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at CCC camp

near Frenchburg, Ky.

Measured in pail by local resident.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Salyersville, Ky.

Measured in No. 2 washtub by local resident.

Measured in pail by local resident. 

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at CCC camp

at Bowen, Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Winchester, Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Ravenna,

Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Willow,

Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Heidelberg, Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Jackson,

Ky.

U. S.' Weather Bureau gage at Quicksand,

Ky.

U. S. Weather Bureau gage at Hazard,

Ky.

Group B. Acceptable reliability: Overflowed receptacle

26a 

26b

27a

27b

28a 

28b 

29

30 

31 

32

33 

34a 

34b 

35 

36a 

36b

37

 50

39 

40

41 

42 

43 

44 

45a

Elliott ___ 

d"

do . .......

do . ... .

Rowan. ....... 

do 

do

do

do __ _..

Hn

do _______ 

do 

do 

do ' 

do 

do . . Morgan..........

do __ ._ 

Ho '

do _____ 

Wolfe _____ 

do 

do 

do

Little Sandy River... 

do

do

Ho

Triplett Creek..... 

"do~T" ~ .'.'

do _ 

do 

d"

__ do _______________ 

Craney Creek __ . _ 

__ do _ . . 

__ do _ . 

__do _ 

..Ho

__ do _ .. _ 

., .. .do

Licking River __ . _ 

do

___ do ____ .

Red River _____ . 

do 

do 

__ do 

7.0+ 

14 5+

9.4+

9.8+

9.8+ 

7.2+ 

6.8+

5.8+ 

6.9+ 

5.0+

9.4+ 

8.9+ 

8.4+ 

9.4+ 

9.4+ 

14.0+

8.8+ 

9.0+

7.8+ 

10.6+

8.0+ 

8.5+ 

9.0+ 

8.6+ 

7.1+

Wooden box reported overflowed.

No. 3 washtub reported overflowed. . 

Stove kettle reported overflowed.

Oil measure reported rained full. 

8-lb. lard pail reported about full.

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 

Square washtub reported rained full. 

Well bucket reported rained full. 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 

Do.

Iron kettle reported overflowed.

Iron kettle reported overflowed. 

Do.

Do. 

Do.

Gravel pan reported rained full. 

Iron kettle reported rained full. 

Iron kettle reported overflowed. '
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 49

Rainfall during night of July 4-5, 1939, in e&stern Kentucky Continued

Group B. Acceptable reliability: Overflowed receptacle Continued

No. 

on 

pi. 9

45b 

46a 

46b 

46c

47 

48 

49 

50 

51 

52 

53 

' 54

Location

County

Wolfe ....__.. 

do __

do...- ....... 

do--

do. .....................

BreathitU ...... 

do.......... .....

do

do........... ......

do

do 

do...... . ...

Drainage basin

do

do 

do

do . .......

do

...........do.................... ............. ...

do

_ do . __ .....................

Quicksand Creek... .... 

do

Rainfall 

(inches)

11.0-t 9.4- 

7.3- 

12.0-

7.2-| 

9.4- 

9.8- 

9.4- 

6.9- 

7.0- 

5.9- 

3.2-1

h 

-

Method of measurement

Wooden tub reported overflowed. 

No. 2 washtub reported rained full. 2 

10-qt. pail reported rained full. 2 

Rise in water tank measured by local 

resident. 3 

8-lb. lard pail reported overflowed. 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

Indications that No. 3 washtub rained full. 

No. 2 washtub reported rained full. 

10-qt. bucket reported rained full. 

No. 10 bucket reported rained full. 

Iron kettle reported overflowed. 

Stone bowl reoorted overflowed. 

Group C. Uncertain reliability: Depth estimated, or measurement of doubtful accuracy

55 

56 

57

58 

59

60 61 '

62a

62b 

63 

64 

65 

66 

67

68

69 

70 

71

72

73 

74 

75

76 

77

78

79 

80 

81 

82 

83

84 

85

86 

87

88 

89 

90

91 

92 

93

Lewis... 

do. _ .... _ 

Carter. _ _

Elliott __ 

do

do . .... 

do

Lawrence...

do.................. 

Rowan 

do 

do 

Hr.

do... _____

Ho

do 

do . .

do 

do.. ___ :.

do 

do..._ ____ 

Menifee.......

Morgan. __ 

do..... ___

do.. ._.___. 

do

do __ 

do _ 

do

Wolfe... __ 

do........ ........

do....... .......... 

do

do.. .... .__,_..

Po well.. ......

Clark................. 

Breathitt _ .

do . . _

do

do...... ___

Kinniconick Creek 

__ do _ . ___ . _ _ 

Tygarts Creek..............

Little Sandy River, 

do _ . ._.__

do

do _.' ..

Blaine Creek ___ ...

do ____ ... ... 

Triplett Creek __ . 

do _ _ ...... .

do _ . __ 

do

do........ _ ..... _.__ 

........_do_. ...... ___ ............

"do 

~ do." " '.

. do. . -.

Craney Creek........ _ 

Licking River......... __ 

.. __ do. _ . ___ .... __ .

. do.. . . . -. 

......_...do....................................

do

do

do

do 

do............ .-..---.

do

North Fork 

Kentucky River... 

do

......... do.- - '...-.- ...... .-..-

Kentucky River......... 

North Fork 

Kentucky River...

'do

do

.__..do.. ___ ................

6.5 

7.9

5.5

.8 

6.9

9.2 

10.0

5.0

4.4 

4.6 

5.6 

7.2 

5.7 

7.4

8.0

6.7 

5.1 

13.9 

11.5

6.4 

3.8 

9.3

6.2 

6.9

7.4

8.1 

6.4 

1.6 

2.2 

,5.1

8.4

6.0 

3.4 

5.0

1.2 

4.4

4.8 

11.9 

8.9 

3.3

Garbage pail approximately 1& full. 

Iron kettle filled to 2 in. from top. 

Estimated 7 inches deep in No. 3 wash- tub. 2 

About 3 inches in round iron kettle. 

Measured in No. 2 washtub by local resi- dent. 2 

Do. 2 

50-lb. lard can filled to about 4 in. from 

top. 2 

Measured in No. 2 washtub by local resident. 

Oval iron kettle about % full. 

Estimated No. 3 washtub ^ full. 

Indicated mark in No. 1 washtub by maid. 

Small tub almost full. 

Estimated depth in well bucket. 

Measured to doubtful water mark in 

stone jar. 

Measured in No. 2 washtub by local resi- dent. 2 

Indicated depth in No, 3 washtub. 2 

Indicated depth to water mark in tub. 

Indicated depth in 12 gallon stone churn. 

Garbage pail filled to .about 2 inches from 

top. 

Indicated depth in No. 3 washtub. 2 

Estimated iron kettle about ^ full. 

No. 3 washtub filled to about ^ inch 

from top. 2 

No. 2 washtub filled to rings in tub. 2 

No. 3 waShtub filled to about 3 inches 

from top. 2 

No. 2 washtub filled to about 2 inches 

from top. 2 

Indicated depth in 2 qt. fruit jar. 

No. 3 washtub about % full.2 

Estimated 2 inches in No. 2 washtub. 2 

Estimated -3 inches in No. 2 washtub. 2 

No. 2 washtub filled to about 4^ inches 

from top. 2 

No. 2 washtub filled to about 1 inch from 

top. 2

Measured in bathtub by local resident. 2 

4-lb. lard pail about % full. 2 

Measured in No. 2 washtub by local resi- dent. 2 

Estimated 2 inches in No. 10 bucket. 2 

Estimated 6 inches in No. 10 bucket.

Indicated depth in iron kettle by local 

resident. 

Indicated 2 inches from top of 20-zal 

iron kettle. ' 

No. 2 washtub filled to about % inch 

from top. 2 

Estimated 4% inches in No. 2 washtub.
50 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

Rainfall during night of July 4-5, 1939, in eastern Kentucky Continued 

Group D. Uncertain reliability: Overflowed receptacle but not observed by field party

No. 

on 

pi. 9

94 

95 

96 

97 

98 

99 

100 

101 

102 

103 

104 

105 

106 

107 

108 

109 

110

111 

112 

113 

114 

115 

116 

117 

118 

119 

120 

121 

122 

123

Location

County

Carter... __ 

Elliott........ . 

Fleming. 

Rowan... _ ..... 

do....- .... 

do. ................ 

do .................. 

do...-....-.-., 

do.. ... ... 

do................ 

Menifee.......

do 

do...-....- ......

do.-...-... ....

do

do... ...... 

Wolfe.... _ ....

do

do

do

do

do

do.. _ ...-.

do . .........

Breathitt........ 

do .._

do.... ........

do -

do

Drainage basin

Tygarts Creek.... ....... 

Little Sandy River 

Licking River ..... ... 

Triplett Creek.... ..._.... 

do 

..... do 

.... do 

do

........... .do...... ...:____..

Craney Creek.... ._.._.. 

Licking River.... ...... 

do

...........do..... ........................ 

..._... do

........do..... ................ ...

...... do

........ ...do..

.. do

.......... .do...

............do

.... do

do

...........do

........ do

Frozen Creek.. ... 

do

......... .do... _

......... ..do

Rainfall 

(inches)

7.5+ 

9.4+ 

7.3+ 

9.4+ 

5.6+ 

5.9+ 

9.4+ 

7.5+ 

9.8+ 

9.8+ 

9.4+ 

9.8+ 

9.4+ 

9.4+ 

9.4+ 

9.8+ 

9.0+

9.4+ 

9.4+ 12.5 

9.4 

9.4 

9.4-- 

9.4 

6.0+ 

9.4+ 

9.4+ 

9.8+ 

7.3+ 

9.4+

Method of measurement

No. 10 bucket reported rained full. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

10-qt. pail reported overflowed. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

Bucket reported rained full. 2 

Do. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported rained full. 2 

No. 10 bucket reported rained full. 2 

No. 3 washtub reported rained full. 2 

Do. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported rained full. 2 

No. 3 washtub reported rained full. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

Do. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported rained full. 2 

No. 3 washtub reported rained full. 2 

Half bushel measure reported rained 

full. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 Do. 2 

5-gallon bucket reported rained full. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported rained full. 2 Do. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

Stone jar reported overflowed. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported rained full. 2 

No. "2 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

" No. 3 washtub reported overflowed. 2 

10-qt. pail reported overflowed. 2 

No. 2 washtub reported overflowed. 2

1 Except as indicated by footnote reference, location of receptacle during storm was observed 

by field party of Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army, and receptacle was seen and measured, or its 

dimensions were reliably determined.

2 Receptacle and location during storm not observed by field party.

3 No. 46c, at same location as 46a, b, can also be classified in group A.

The accompanying map (pi. 9) shows by small black circles the location of all observations of rainfall listed in the preceding table of rainfall 

data, with the corresponding reference number. Lines of equal depth of 

rainfall (isohyetals) were constructed on the basis of all information on 

rainfall depths and show equal depth for each inch of rainfall up to 

8 inches. In view of the uncertainty concerning the exact amount of rainfall in the central areas of the storm no attempt was made to define the 

isohyetals for depths above 8 inches. To indicate the probable range in 

depth in the general area between the 8-inch isohyetal and the center of 

the storm, the figures 8"-12" are shown in that area. For the maximum 

depth at the center of the storm area the designation over 12" has been 

used to indicate that depths exceeding 12 inches probably occurred in the 

general central area.

The areas contained within the isohyetals showing rainfall depths of 

4, 6, and 8 inches have been planimetered and the results are set forth

Area contained

Isohyetal within isohyetal 

(inches) (square miles)

4 ............................................... ........... 1,838

6 ..................................................... ..... 1,160

8 ............................................... ........... 443

Two separate 8-inch isohyetals are shown on the map (pi. 9), enclosing 

a total area of 443 square miles, of which approximately half is contained 

in each area.
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 51

According to Hydrometeorological Report No. 2: 2

Isohyets, covering a rather large area, could be drawn with reasonable reliability 

for values as high as 7 and 8 inches. When the storm type is taken into consideration 

it can be inferred that intense centers occurred within those isohyets. This inference 

seems to be justified by slope discharge measurements, especially those made in the 

Frozen Creek watershed.

FLOOD DISCHARGE

GENERAL FEATURES

The runoff resulting from the concentration of heavy rainfall was very 

unusual with respect to the extremely high rates of flow that occurred 

from small areas at the center of the storm. Flood stages and discharges 

on the smaller streams exceeded any previously Witnessed, and the rates 

of flow in headwater and small tributary streams were greater than any 

heretofore recorded for similar-sized streams in Kentucky. Abundant 

evidence of the passage of extremely large flood flows was provided by 

the condition of stream channels and overflow sections and the large 

deposition of debris. (See pis. 10, 11.) As the flood was of short duration 

in the night and early morning and was limited to a comparatively small 

area, it was impossible to obtain first-hand information on the flood 

runoff. As a result, all data on rates of flow and most of the information 

on the behaviour and effects of the floodwaters, were obtained from field 

observations and measurements made subsequent to the event.

The region affected by the unusual flood covered an area of almost 

1,000 square miles, principally in Lewis, Carter, Rowan, Elliott, Morgan, 

Wolfe, and Breathitt Counties. As the greatest rates of flow apparently 

were experienced in the Frozen and Triplett Creek areas, principal attention was devoted to the flood discharges in those areas.

Frozen Creek drains an area of 55 square miles entirely in Breathitt 

County and flows in a southwesterly direction to enter North Fork 

Kentucky River about 4 miles northwest of Jackson, Ky. Triplett Creek 

drains an area of 188 square miles entirely in Rowan County and also 

flows in a southwesterly direction to enter Licking River near the town 

of Farmers, Ky. However, the drainage area of Triplett Creek above the 

mouth of North Fork Triplett Creek is only 74 square miles, and all investigations of peak flow were made at locations above the mouth of 

North Fork.

The Frozen and Triplett Creek areas have a similar rugged topography, 

with hillsides ranging up to foothill mountains such that a drop in elevation of 500 feet in half, a mile from ridge tops to stream beds is not 

uncommon. The steep hillside slopes, the lack of appreciable topsoil, and 

vegetation consisting chiefly of second-growth timber are all conducive 

to rapid runoff. Although the topography and stream patterns in the two 

areas are similar, the flood-flow characteristics of the two streams are 

somewhat different. There is a noticeable difference in the width of flood 

plains1, Triplett Creek having a flood plain several times wider than that 

of Frozen Creek for corresponding drainage areas.

2 Maximum possible precipitation over the Ohio River Basin above Pittsburgh, Pa., prepared 

bv the Hydrometeorological Section of the Weather Bureau in cooperation with the Corps of 

Engineers, U. S. Army, June 16, 1941: Hydrometeorological Report No. 2, p. 69, fig. 6.07 

Vicksburg, Miss. [1942].
52 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

At Morehead on Triplett Creek the storm commenced with unusual 

force about 11 p.m. on July 4. Shortly thereafter the normal stream channel overflowed, and the stream rose at an even rate the next 2 hours. The 

rate of rise began to accelerate about 1 a.m. on July 5, and from that time 

until the crest was reached 1 hour later the rise was very rapid. The 

rapid rise shortly before cresting was estimated by one observer as "a rise 

of 7 feet in 11 minutes." Another observer estimated that "the stream 

rose 10 to 15 feet in less than half an hour."

The sudden rise of Frozen Creek was described as even more abrupt 

than that of Triplett Creek and was said to have been almost immediate 

and in the form of a flood wave. Local residents vividly described the 

rapid rise as "an approaching wall of water which billowed up like 

clouds"; "a 15-foot wall of water crashing down the valley"; and "like 

thunder with livestock, pieces of houses, and countless other things all 

being whirled together on the breast of the torrent as if in a great mixing 

pot." It was estimated that in one place the water rose 20 feet in 10 

minutes. The depths of water at the many sections investigated with field 

measurements ranged from 12 to 28 feet. The tributaries of Frozen 

Creek crested between 3:30 a.m. and 3:45 a.m. on July 5 while main 

Frozen Creek crested at the mouth about 1 hour later.

PEAK DISCHARGE MEASUREMENTS

As it was impossible to obtain direct measurements of the flood flow 

in the areas of high runoff, the next best method for obtaining this information was by the slope-area method. Accordingly, field parties were 

sent out, all possible information was collected, and computations and 

interpretations of the data were made. Field conditions on these particular 

streams were extremely unfavorable for use of the slope-area method and 

made it impossible to secure adequate base data. As a result the discharges 

obtained were inconsistent. The measurements must be regarded as 

approximations and their use restricted accordingly. The divergence 

between resultant discharges for comparable drainage areas was such that 

differences in discharges ranging from 50 to 100 percent were obtained 

from separate measurements having comparable drainage areas on the 

same stream or adjacent areas. Because of doubt of their accuracy, the" 

specific results were omitted from this report.

Various factors influence the accuracy of these measurements. Unfavorable conditions were encountered in the selection of satisfactory channel 

reaches and the determination of accurate water-surface profiles. The best 

reaches were selected, but almost all of them were only approximately 

straight, were nonuniform in area, and were joined by bends within relatively short distances. Because of the varying physical conditions within 

each reach, such as kind and amount of vegetation, meandering and nonuniform channels, and great amounts of debris, a wide range in opinion 

was possible as to the proper roughness coefficients to be used.

The flood waters rose and fell so rapidly that the flood crest did not 

leave a clearly defined profile. As the force of the flood flows so radically 

changed the character of the vegetation, it is possible that the high-water 

profile may have resulted from the highly obstructed channel prior to the 

peak flow rather than from peak flow throi^ * fairly well cleared
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 53

channel. Although there was tributary inflow into the reaches, it is 

assumed that the peak of such flow had passed before the occurrence of 

the peak in the main stream. Such tributary inflow, however, may have 

affected the main-stream water-surface profile, especially as determined for 

very small drainage areas.

Measurements of peak flow were made at 16 locations in the Triplet! 

and Frozen Creek Basins, of which 10 were made by the Geological 

Survey and 6 by the engineering staff of the Cincinnati office, Corps of 

Engineers, United States Army. The "Summary" that follows presents 

general descriptive material pertaining to the flood-discharge measurements made by the Geological Survey. Following these descriptions is a 

table showing probable maximum rates of flow for drainage areas of 

different sizes in the flood area, based on the results of the flood-flow determinations. The location of all 16 measuring points is shown on plate 

9 by means of open circles to differentiate them from the solid circles 

used to designate the locatidn of gaging stations.

SUMMARY

MEASUREMENTS BY GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

The brief descriptions given herein provide pertinent information on 

the location of flood-flow measurements made by the Geological Survey 

and the nature of the field data. Each description includes name of stream, 

drainage area, location of point of measurement, method of measurement, 

nature of channel and adjoining terrain, floodmarks, and a statement 

concerning the accuracy of base data.

Triplett Creek. Drainage area 3.5 square miles; at Hayes, Rowan 

County, Ky., at mouth of Buffalo Branch; contracted-opening method; 

discharge through Chesapeake & Ohio Railway culvert, stream approaches 

at right angles to culvert, Buffalo Creek enters directly at culvert, poor 

definition of drop through culvert and approach slopes of water surface; 

base data poor. .

Johnson .Fork. Drainage area 5.3 square miles, tributary to Boone 

Fork; at Wilhurst, Breathitt County, Ky., 14 mile upstream from mouth; 

slope-area method; reach of channel fairly straight but joined by bend 

a short distance downstream, reach contracting, wide overflow, both banks 

clean and smooth; few high-water marks, slope poorly defined; base 

data poor.

Johnson Fork. Drainage area 5.3 square miles, tributary to Boone 

Fork; at Wilhurst, Breathitt County, Ky., *4 mile upstream from mouth ; 

slope-area method; reach of channel adjacent to that of preceding location but includes bend at each end, other channel characteristics and 

water-surface profile data same as preceding location; base data poor:

Christy Creek. Drainage area 11.5 square miles, tributary to Triplett 

Creek; 1 mile upstream from Christy, Rowan County, Ky., i£ mile downstream from Seas Branch; slope-area method; reach of channel straight 

but curved a short distance beyond each end, cornfields on both banks, 

slight overflow on right bank and wide overflow on left bank, cross 

section reasonably uniform; several high-water marks, slope fairly well 

defined; base data fair.
54 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

Cope Fork. Drainage area 11.8 square miles, tributary to Frozen 

Creek; 1 mile downstream from Keck, Breathitt County, Ky., about % 

mile upstream from mouth; slope-area method; reach of channel fairly 

straight but sharp bend located short distance downstream, cross section 

slightly expanding, wide overflow on right bank and field badly eroded, 

little overflow on steep left bank; high-water marks scattered, slope uncertain; base data poor.

Frozen Creek. Drainage area 22.9 square miles; in Breathitt County, 

Ky., % mile upstream from Blanton Bridge and mouth of Cope Fork; 

slope-area method; reach of channel fairly straight but joined by sharp 

bends a short distance from each end, bridge just upstream from, reach, 

cross section contracting, wide overflow on right bank and cornfield partly 

eroded, no overflow on left bank; few high-water marks, slope poorly 

defined; base data poor.

Frozen Creek. Drainage area 23.3 square miles; in Breathitt County, 

Ky., % mile upstream from Blanton Bridge* and mouth of Cope Fork; 

slope-area method; reach of channel fairly straight but sharp bend just 

upstream from reach, cross section slightly expanding, wide overflow in 

smooth field on left bank; no overflow on steep right bank; many highwater marks, slope fairly well defined; base data fair or better.

Frozen Creek. Drainage area 23.3 square miles; in Breathitt County, 

Ky., y2 mile upstream from Blanton Bridge and mouth of Cope Fork; 

slope-area method; reach of channel adjacent to that of previous location 

and channel characteristics similar; base data fair or better.

Frozen Creek. Drainage area 55.1 square miles; at Frozen Creek, 

Breathitt County, Ky., y2 mile upstream from mouth; slope-area method; 

reach of channel straight, cross section uniform, reach 500 feet downstream from' highway bridge and 1,500 feet upstream from railroad 

bridge, no overflow on steep left bank, slight overflow on clean right 

bank; many high-water marks somewhat scattered, slope fairly well defined ; base data good.

Triplett Creek. Drainage area 74.4 square miles; at Bluestone, Rowan 

County, Ky., 1% miles upstream from North Fork; slope-area method; 

reach of channel straight but joined by curved channel at ends, cross 

section expanding, wide overflow, brush, and cornfield on left bank, no 

overflow on right bank, railroad embankment; a few high-water marks, 

slope only fairly defined; base data fair or better.

MEASUREMENTS BY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

The flood flow measurements by the Corps of Engineers were made at 

five locations in Frozen Creek Basin and at one location in Triplett Creek 

Basin, as follows:

Triplett Creek. Drainage area 3.5 square miles; at Hayes, Rowan 

County, at mouth of Buffalo Branch; contracted-opening method.

Boone Fork. Drainage area 7.4 square miles; % mile upstream from 

Johnson Fork, Breathitt County; slope-area method.

Cope Fork. Drainage area 9.4 square miles; 2% miles from mouth, 

Breathitt County; slope-area method.

Frozen Creek. Drainage area 19.0 square miles; 3.3 miles upstream 

from Blanton Bridge, Breathitt County; slope-area method.
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 55

Frozen Creek. Drainage area 23.4 square miles; y% mile upstream 

from Blanton Bridge, Breathitt County; slope-area method.

Frozen Creek. Drainage area 55.2 square miles; at mouth of Frozen 

Creek, Breathitt County; slope-area method.

ESTIMATES OF MAXIMUM RATE OP FLOOD FLOW

In summarizing the information on flood flows an analysis was made 

of the relation of peak flows to drainage areas, due consideration being 

given to the qualifying descriptions, and probable maximum rates of discharge for the flood were derived. On this basis, probable maximum rates 

of flood flow were estimated for drainage areas ranging from 5 to 75 

square miles for the area of high runoff on July 4-5, 1939, and this 

information is- presented as follows:

Drainage area Probable maximum rates of flow 

(square miles') (second-feet per square mile)

5-10 ............................................... 2,000 or more

10-25 ............................................... 1,500 or more

25-50 ............................................... 1,000-1,500

50-75 ............................................... 1,000 or less

GAGING-STATION RECORDS

Stream-gaging stations in the main drainage basins were affected by the 

storm. Several of these were at the very edge of the storm area, and unfortunately none was so situated that flow at the station directly reflected 

the exceptional runoff. This fact is evidenced from an inspection of plate 

9. The main storm area producing the unusual depth of rainfall was long, 

narrow, and irregular in shape and was so located with respect to the 

main drainage basins that the divides between basins were straddled or 

only segments across the narrow part of the basin were affected. Consequently, crest stages and peak discharges at these gaging stations, although 

of unusual magnitude, were not outstanding and nowhere exceeded the 

previous maximum. Gaging-station records were obtained at the following 

locations on main streams or principal tributary streams in Kentucky 

affected by the storm:

Little Sandy River near Grayson.

Licking River near Salyersville.

Licking River at Yale.

Licking River at Farmers.

Licking River at Blue Lick Springs.

North Fork Kentucky River at Jackson.

Kentucky River at Lock 14 at Heidelberg.

Kentucky River at Lock 10 near Winchester.

Red River at Clay City.

Information on crest stages and peak discharges at the various gaging 

stations is given in the table that follows. Reference numbers in the first 

column of this table correspond to the numbers designating large solid 

circles (as opposed to small solid circles designating the location of 

rainfall observations) plotted on plate 9 to indicate the location of streamgaging stations.

Descriptions of the gaging stations and related information, including 

extremes of stage and discharge and records of daily discharge are given 

in the annual reports on the surface water supply of the United States, 

part 3, Ohio River Basin, published by the Geological Survey.
Flood discharges in eastern Kentucky for the flood of J

No.

1

2

3

4

 5

6 

7 

8

9

Stream and place of determination

Little Sandy River Basin

Little Sandy River near Grayson, Ky....._..

Licking River Basin

Licking River near Salyersville, Ky..._...... ..

Licking River at Yale, Ky. _____ ...... __ .

Licking River at Farmers, Ky. _ __ ...... _

Licking River at Blue Lick Springs, KyKentucky River Basin

North Fork Kentucky River 

at Jackson, Ky...... __« ___ . _ , ____

Kentucky River at lock 14,

Kentucky River at lock 10, 

near Winchester, Ky. ___ ..... ____ . _ _..-

Red River at Clay City, Ky. ________ .....

Drainage 

area 

(square 

miles)

'398

'140

'709

'826

1,740

'1,105

'2,648 

3,960

363

Period 

of 

record

1938-39

1938-39

1938-39

1928-31, 

1938-39

1938-39

^

1928-31, 

1936-39

1925-31, 

1938-39

1909-39

1930-32, 

1938-39

Maximum flood previously kno

Date

Feb. 4, 1939

Feb. 3, 1939

Feb. 3, 1939

Feb. 3, 1939

Feb. 3, 19395

Feb. 4, 1939 

Feb. 4, 1939 

Feb. 6, 1939

July 15, 1938

Gage 

height 

(feet)

26.25

25.4

31.11

24.8

36.37

42.10 

35.6 

34.7

22.8

Disch

Secondfeet

18,400

14,300

19,300

22,200

24,800

46.800 

110,000 

85,200

21,100

1 Supersedes figure published in Water-Supply Paper 873.

2 Secondary crest occurred at 5 a.m. July 5 (gage height, 15.6 feet; discharge, 4,880 second-feet).

* Occurred at 12 m.

4 Approximate; stage-discharge relation affected by backwater.

8 Greater flood occurred in January 1937.
PART 2. EASTERN KENTUCKY 57

In the Little Sandy River Basin only the extreme headwater area was 

affected by the intense storm, and the rise at the gaging station near 

Grayson was not of unusual magnitude.

In the Licking River Basin the drainage area above Salyersville had 

unusual precipitation only in the extreme western part, and the mean 

rainfall over the entire area was not of unusual proportions. Between 

Salyersville and Yale over half the intervening drainage area produced a 

high runoff, and the area between Yale and Farmers, although relatively 

small, also gave a high runoff. In the large area between-Farmers and 

Blue Lick Springs only Triplett Creek and a small adjacent area contributed to flood flow and most of the area was relatively noncontributing.

North Fork Kentucky River had relatively little flood runoff from the 

drainage area above Jackson, except from a small area in the immediate 

vicinity of Jackson, chiefly Quicksand Creek. Most of the drainage area 

between Jackson and the mouth of North Fork Kentucky River contributed high runoff, but the effect of this flood flow was not directly 

reflected at the gaging station on Kentucky River at lock 14 at Heidelberg 

because of the large noncontributing areas on Middle Fork and South 

Fork Kentucky River.

Likewise on Red River, which is tributary to Kentucky River, -the 

drainage area in the headwaters produced high flood flows, but with a 

major portion of the area above the gaging station at Clay City producing 

only minor runoff, the headwater flood flows were dissipated, with the 

result that the flood rise at Clay City was not of unusual proportions.

The hydrographs, figures 6 and 7, show the flood rise and recession at 

several of the gaging stations. Graphs of stage (fig. 7) for the gaging 

stations at Yale, Farmers, Blue Lick Springs, Jackson, Heidelberg, and 

Clay City were constructed on the basis of twice-daily gage readings by 

the gage observer and numerous readings by engineers. The discharge 

graphs (fig. 6) were constructed on the basis of the stage graphs and the 

stage-discharge relation, except for the station at Salyersville, which was 

reproduced from the recording-gage record obtained at that station.

The rapid concentration of flood flows on tributary streams and thence 

to main streams resulted in backwater on the main streams for considerable distances. This effect was evident to a great extent at the gaging 

station on Licking River at Farmers, where the effect pf Triplett Creek 

entering only a short distance downstream from the gage was felt, and 

to a lesser extent on Licking River at Yale, which was also apparently 

affected by the abrupt rise on Triplett Creek, as there are no major 

tributary streams entering Licking River between Yale and Farmers. As 

this backwater effect created some doubt as to the correct discharge 

hydrographs for the gaging stations at Yale and Farmers, these hydrographs have not been reproduced.

The abrupt rise on several small tributaries of North Fork Kentucky 

River caused backwater on that stream for considerable distances. Frozen 

Creek, which enters North Fork Kentucky River a few miles downstream 

from Jackson and which was estimated to have attained a mean velocity 

of 13 feet per second at the mouth, caused considerable backwater on the 

main stream. Quicksand Creek, which enters a short distance upstream 

from Jackson, caused backwater oh North Fork Kentucky 'River as far 

as Haddix, 7 miles upstream.

58 NOTABLE LOCAL FLOODS OF 1939

: 20,000

10,000

 , , , , ,- 

\j Licking River near Salyersvllle, ICy. \

5 S 7 8 9 10 II 12 13 

Figure 6. Discharge hydrographs at gaging stations in Kentucky and Licking River Basins.

S 7 8 9 10 II 12 (3 

JULY 1939

Figure 7. Stage hydro-graphs at gaging stations in Kentucky and Licking. River Basins.

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 967 PLATE 7

A.- HOME OVERTURNED BY FORCE OF FLOOD FLOW. 

Triplett Creek at base of hill in background.

B. STORE FRONTING ON RAILROAD STREET FORCED FROM FOUNDATION 

AND MOVED TO FAIRBANKS AVENUE.

DAMAGE TO BUILDINGS IN MOREHEAD BY FLOODWATERS OF

TRIPLETT CREEK.

Photographs taken between 11:30 a.m. and 12 m. on July S, 1939.

Courtesy Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army. »
GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 967 PLATE 8

A. WASH-OUT OF RAILROAD BRIDGE ON TRIPLETT CREEK NEAR MOREHEAD.

Bridge on spur line of Chesapeake & Ohio Railway was forced from foundations

by floating house. Courtesy Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army.

B. VIEW OF COPE FORK IN FROZEN CREEK BASIN SHOWING REMAINS 

OF COCKRELL BRIDGE ON STATE HIGHWAY IS.

Steel truss bridge was carried several hundred feet downstream. 

Courtesy Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army.

DAMAGE TO BRIDGES ON TRIPLETT CREEK AND COPE FORK.
GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 967 PLATE 9

NICHOLAS

0Paris

BOURBON

XJOHNSON

JACKSO

EXPLANATION

I Location of rainfall observation, 

1 with reference number in table

Lines af equal rainfall (isohyetals)

« Location of stream-gaging stations 

(see summary of flood discharges)

^

Location of miscellaneous flood-flow determinations 

(see summary under peak discharge determinations)

Y/

^10 0 10 20 Miles

MAP OF EASTERN KENTUCKY SHOWING LOCATION OF OBSERVATIONS OF RAINFALL AND 

ISOHYETALS FOR TOTAL PRECIPITATION JULY 4-5, 1939, AND LOCATION OF STREAMGAGING STATIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS MEASUREMENTS OF FLOOD FLOW

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY WATER-SUPPLY PAPER 967 PLATE 10

A. RECEDING FLOODWATERS OF TRIPLETT CREEK.

View downstream showing North Fork entering at right. Photograph taken between 11:30 a.m. 

and 12 m. on July S, 1939. Courtesy Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army.

B. FROZEN CREEK AT THE MOUTH.

View upstream from railroad bridge near North Fork Kentucky River showing sand deposits and

stripped vegetation along banks. Photograph taken July 20, 1939.

Courtesy Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army.
GEOLOGICAL SURVEY \\ATEK-srPPLY PAPER 967 PLATE 11

A. BOONE FORK IN FROZEN CREEK BASIN.

View from State Highway 15 about 0.1 mile upstream from mouth showing thick deposit of mud

on cornfield and automobile lying overturned in stream. Photograph taken July 9, 1939.

Courtesy Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army.

B. EROSION ON HILLSIDE IN WOLFE COUNTY.

View from State Highway 15 about 2 miles from Breathitt County Line. Photograph taken 

July 19, 1939. Courtesy Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army.
59

INDEX

Page

Acknowledgments ..................... 43-44

Blue Lick Springs, Ky., .Licking River at 56,

57, 58

Boone Fork, discharge measurements on. . 54 

view of ....................... pi. 11, A

Christy Creek, discharge measurements on 53 

Clay City, Ky., Red River at. ..... .56, 57, 58

Cope Fork, -damage caused by........ .pi. 8, B

discharge measurements on ........ 54

Corps of Engineers, discharge measurements by .......................... 54-55

Discharge, gaging station records of.....55-58

general features of ............... .51 52

peaks of, measurement of ......... .52-55

Farmers, Ky., Licking River at.....56, 57, 58

Flood, area affected by ................ 42, 51

damage caused by. ... .42-43, pis. 7, 8, 11

Frozen Creek, discharge measurements on.54 55 

drainage area of .. ............... 51

rise of water in ................... 52

view of ........................ pi. 10, B

Gaging stations, location of ..............pi. '9

records of ........................ 55-58

Geological Survey, discharge measurements 

by .................................53-54

'Grayson, Ky., Little Sandy River near..56, 57

Heidelberg, Ky., Kentucky River at. .56, 57, 58

Page

Jackson, Ky., North Fork Kentucky River 

at ....'. ........................56, 57, 58

Johnson Fork, discharge measurements on 53

Kentucky River, at Heidelberg, Ky.. .56, 57, 58

near Winchester, Ky. .............. 56

Licking River, at Blue Lick Springs, Ky. 56,

57, 58 

at Farmers, Ky. .............. 56, 57, 58

at Yale, Ky. ................. .56, 57, 58

near Salyersville, Ky. ..........56, 57, 58

Little Sandy River, near Grayson, Ky...56, 57 

Meteorologic conditions in the area..... .44-45

Morehead, Ky., damage at. ....... .pis. 7, 8, A

North Fork Kentucky River, at Jackson, 

Ky. ............................ 56, 57, 58

Rainfall, depth of .............. .46-51, pi. 9

duration and extent of............. 45-46

Red River, at Clay City, Ky. ......56, 57, 58

Salyersville, Ky., Licking River near 56,

57, 58 

Storm, description of .............. 42, 44 51

Triplett Creek, damage caused by. .pis. 7, 8, A 

discharge measurements on ........ 53, 54

drainage, area of .................. 51

rise of water in ................... 52

view of ... i...................pi. 10, A

Winchester, Ky., ^entucky River near.. . 56 

Yale, Ky., Licking River at....... .56, 57, 58

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