Severe Floods Hit West Virginia, Causing Destruction and Rescues

Torrential rains have caused severe flash floods across West Virginia. Homes and businesses are underwater, bridges are destroyed, and numerous water rescues are underway. Governor Patrick Morrisey reported some residents are still missing as search operations continue.

Statewide Response

The governor has deployed 500 National Guard members to the most affected areas in the northern part of the state. Tuesday night, a state of emergency was declared across all 55 counties. More than 100 individuals have been rescued from floodwaters, with concerns rising for unaccounted residents.

Nineteen helicopters from the National Guard and state police were either conducting rescue missions or on standby. Three shelters have been opened, housing over 100 residents, as confirmed by the governor at a press conference.

Record-Breaking Rainfall

Forecasters reported up to 7 inches of rain in some areas. Governor Morrisey mentioned some locations received 4.5 inches in just 37 minutes. “There is nowhere for the water to go,” he noted, highlighting the severe conditions.

Video footage and photographs display the extensive flooding in Buckhannon. Aerial shots reveal submerged vehicles, including at a Walmart in Weston, where muddy water flooded into the store. Emergency crews have performed numerous rescues from submerged vehicles, though some areas remain inaccessible due to floodwaters.

Community Impact and Recovery Efforts

West Virginians are urged to unite and support one another during this challenging time. Recovery efforts are paramount as the community braces for a long road ahead. Mayor Robbie Skinner of Buckhannon remarked that the college will serve as a drop-off point for donated supplies once waters recede.

Despite the cleared skies on Wednesday, flood warnings persisted in several counties, particularly in low-lying regions near rivers and creeks. Flood watches extended through parts of Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina.

Emergency communication channels remain active, especially in Lewis and Upshur counties, where 40,000 residents reside. Described as extensive by Agnes Quinn Queen, Lewis County Commissioner, the devastation has been profound.

Floodwaters have resulted in road closures, including parts of Interstate 79 and U.S. Route 48. In Fayetteville, a sinkhole claimed a vehicle at a bar. The current storms echo disastrous events from a decade earlier, where 23 people lost their lives due to prolonged heavy rains.

A U.S. Geological Survey water gauge indicated record levels at Sand Run near Buckhannon, surpassing a historical mark set in the November 1985 flood, which resulted in 47 deaths statewide.