PIKEVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- Two schools in eastern Kentucky that were severely damaged by flooding have been exempted from completing the rest of the year.

Belfry Middle School Principal James Hurley said Tuesday that his school and Johns Creek Elementary, both in Pike County, received the exemptions.

Rain storms late earlier this month caused flooding and stirred up mudslides in several eastern Kentucky counties. A deadly tornado struck Garrard and Madison counties.

The storms have led 21 counties and six cities to declare a state of emergency. Gov. Steve Beshear has asked President Obama to declare a major disaster for impacted areas.