CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Heavy rainfall triggered severe flash flooding in southern West Virginia on Saturday night, prompting emergency declarations and water rescues across multiple counties.
Emergency Declarations and Federal Response
Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency in 10 counties at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Saturday. The affected counties include Cabell, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Logan, Mercer, McDowell, Mingo, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming. Morrisey urged residents to stay vigilant, noting that a State of Preparedness was in effect for all 55 counties.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem released a statement late Saturday, affirming federal support: “I spoke tonight with West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to offer federal resources and action for the deadly flash floods impacting West Virginia and Kentucky.” Noem emphasized that while local authorities are leading emergency management efforts, DHS stands ready to provide immediate support.
Severe Flooding and Impacted Areas
In McDowell County, floodwaters from Elkhorn Creek inundated homes and businesses in Welch after over 3.4 inches of rain fell by 8 p.m., according to National Weather Service (NWS) Meteorologist Levi Cornett. The Tug Fork River also reached emergency levels.
Wyoming County experienced significant flooding, with water rescues reported in the town of Oceana. High water and blocked roads were reported in Mercer and Summers counties, where local officials declared states of emergency.
The flooding also affected neighboring areas, including Hurley, Virginia, near the West Virginia state line, where residents reported historic flood levels.
Record Rainfall and Ongoing Threats
Beckley set a daily rainfall record on Saturday with 1.26 inches, surpassing the previous record of 1.24 inches set in 2003.
Meteorologist Cornett warned that while the southern coalfields would experience a brief respite from the rain as the storm system moved north, a second round of heavy rain was expected early Sunday morning between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m. This additional rainfall could worsen conditions in already flooded areas.
Residents are urged to monitor local media and follow emergency management instructions as further flash flood warnings may be issued overnight.
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