LOUISVILLE, Ky. — At least 61 people had to evacuate from a Louisville hotel Monday because of flooding.

Multiple agencies and even the National Guard were on standby, rescuing occupants from the Candlewood Suites at Zorn Avenue and River Road near the Ohio River. 

Xavier and Jean Lewis, who are from Fort Knox, were staying at the hotel because Xavier was scheduled to have eye surgery, which they now plan to reschedule.

When they woke up Monday morning, they didn’t expect to be surrounded by water.

“We got up this morning; they said 'Oh, you can’t get out,'" Jean Lewis said. "I don’t know when it rose." 

Teams from Louisville Metro Emergency Management Services, Louisville Fire, Louisville Metro Police and emergency management worked together using four rescue boats. Jody Meiman, Louisville Metro Emergency Management executive director, said those who live near the river should not wait to call for help. 

“People who live close to the water that may have expected to ride this out at home, they need to take a look and see and make sure that they're not waiting until the last minute to call for help if they need it or go ahead seek other locations with family or friends,” Meiman said.

After the occupants were rescued, Transit Authority of River City buses came to transport those who were rescued and moved them to another hotel. Officials said they're expecting the water to continue to rise and will check on other neighboring areas that could be affected.

There is no word yet on when the hotel will reopen.