Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky has announced a temporary closure due to significant flooding caused by prolonged rainfall, with operations suspended until at least April 10. The distillery faces uncertainty about the extent of damage as water levels rise dangerously near record highs. The Kentucky River, known for its historical flood records, is currently cresting, impacting not just Buffalo Trace but also surrounding properties. With several buildings and infrastructure compromised, the distillery is assessing the situation before allowing public access and resuming regular functions.
"Due to the unprecedented and ongoing rain and flooding, we are not able to advise on the impact to our total distillery footprint," Buffalo Trace said. "We will assess those realities in the coming days as the facilities become safe to navigate and will make necessary adjustments to operations as required."
Days of unrelenting torrential rain in Kentucky and across the U.S. South and Midwest have caused catastrophic flooding and raised fears the damage could linger for days as rivers swell.
In Frankfort, the river was cresting at Frankfort Lock - approaching the record of 48 1/2 feet (14.78 meters) set on Dec. 10, 1978, according to CJ Padgett, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service's Louisville, Kentucky, office.
As of Monday, several Buffalo Trace buildings were flooded at lower levels and parking lots and cars were underwater. The water tower bearing the brand's logo stood over the visitor center and warehouses that appeared to be inundated with water.
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