WHEELING, W.Va. — Severe storms have caused devastating flooding in northern West Virginia, leading to the deaths of at least four individuals, including a young child. Numerous people remain unaccounted for as rescue operations continue in the aftermath of the disaster.
During a press conference, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey disclosed that four persons were confirmed dead and that authorities were searching for at least four additional individuals who went missing following an unexpected deluge that struck the region late Saturday evening.
“This is a challenging time for the communities in Ohio County and across West Virginia,” Morrisey stated during the live broadcast. He acknowledged the rapid onset of the storm, which resulted in torrential rains that overwhelmed local waterways and infrastructure.
Reports indicate that parts of Ohio County experienced between 2.5 to 4 inches of rain within a short span of 30 minutes, causing flash floods that led to severe flooding. The Ohio County Emergency Management Agency has collaborated with local police and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate rescue efforts and identify individuals who may require assistance.
Lou Vargo, the county’s emergency management director, reported that two individuals were located shortly after the flooding began, while 19 swift water rescues were successfully carried out during the crisis. Vargo noted that local response efforts faced challenges due to extensive damage to essential infrastructure, which hindered access to many flooded areas.
In light of the situation, Morrisey declared a state of emergency in Ohio County. The potential involvement of the National Guard in recovery initiatives has also been discussed to enhance local capabilities to manage the ongoing crisis.
Eyewitness accounts have painted a staggering picture of the flooding’s impact. Residents described cars being swept away by rising waters, individuals seeking refuge in trees, and various structures being engulfed by the surge. Some local officials commented on the unprecedented nature of the flooding, indicating it exceeded anything they had experienced in decades of service.
Police spokesperson Phillip Stahl remarked on the debris-filled waters, citing a mix of unexpected items being carried downstream, including boats and furniture. Vargo echoed these sentiments, stating the rapid onset of the floods caught many residents off-guard, prompting an immediate influx of emergency calls.
As of the latest updates, approximately 2,500 individuals remain without power, and many residents in certain areas are facing water shortages. The emergency management agency has shared critical resources for those in need, including locations for obtaining assistance and reporting missing persons.
Governor Morrisey stressed that the immediate priority is to locate and assist those who remain missing, emphasizing the commitment of local and state officials to address these urgent humanitarian needs as assessments for damage begin.