National Guard Deployed as Flash Floods Devastate West Virginia
• West Virginia is grappling with severe flash flooding after torrential rains dropped up to 7 inches of precipitation in some areas on July 22,
• Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties and deployed 500 National Guard members to assist in rescue and recovery efforts. The hardest-hit areas, including Buckhannon and Weston, experienced washed-out bridges, submerged homes, and extensive damage to infrastructure. Some locations reported receiving 4.5 inches of rain in just 37 minutes, leaving no time for water to drain. Emergency shelters have been set up, housing over 100 displaced residents, while search and rescue operations continue for those unaccounted for. The flooding follows a weekend of heavy rainfall that had already saturated the ground, exacerbating the impact of this latest storm.
Impact & Risks
The flash floods have caused widespread destruction, with homes, businesses, and roads submerged under water. Emergency crews have conducted numerous water rescues, but some areas remain inaccessible due to high water levels. Officials fear potential fatalities, though exact numbers are not yet confirmed. The flooding has also disrupted transportation, with portions of Interstate 79 and U.S. Route 48 closed. The devastation is reminiscent of a 1985 flood that claimed 47 lives statewide, raising concerns about long-term recovery efforts for affected communities.
Related News