Recovery efforts are ongoing in northern West Virginia after flash flooding killed at least seven people and left widespread destruction across Ohio and Marion counties.
Up to four inches of rain fell in 30 minutes Saturday, prompting a flash flood emergency and washing away homes, vehicles and roads. Officials confirmed Tuesday that two people remain missing. Two others have died.
The West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) deployed workers and heavy equipment from four districts to support local crews. Cleanup operations remain focused on clearing debris, restoring road access and reaching stranded residents.
“This fast-moving storm caused devastation unlike anything we’ve seen since the floods of 1985 and 2016,” said Mike Daley, WVDOH District 6 manager, in a statement. “It blew out doors and windows, moved entire homes and left bridges clogged with cars and debris.”
Transportation Secretary Jimmy Wriston said WVDOH crews will remain in place “until the job is done.” The National Guard is also assisting, and residents are urged to document property damage for potential FEMA assistance.
In Marion County, about 90 miles south, a flash flood caused a partial collapse of an apartment building in Fairmont. No injuries were reported, but more than 60 people were displaced.
Forecasters warn of additional flash flooding through midweek, including a Level 3 threat for parts of the state.
Source: West Virginia Department of Highways, Foxweather.com
