At least two people are missing in West Virginia after torrential rain caused flash floods in parts of the state, Governor Patrick Morrisey said. Speaking at a news conference, Morrisey said state police found an overturned vehicle in Upshur county believed to be connected to the missing individuals.
Search and rescue ongoing
Morrisey said that dangerous conditions and debris have prevented responders from safely accessing the vehicle. He added that once the operation is complete and formal identification made, additional information will be released. The governor extended thoughts to the families.
On Wednesday, Morrisey said West Virginia remained in a phase of search and rescue, with teams working to identify anyone they might be able to save. “We are concerned about loss of life,” he said.
State of emergency declared
Earlier in the week, Morrisey declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties and issued a “state of preparedness” as severe weather approached. Initially, about 100 National Guard members were deployed to the hardest-hit areas, with an additional 400 mobilized to support flood-response operations.
The governor’s office said a series of storm systems produced severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, torrential rainfall, mudslides, and rapidly rising water. The most significant impacts were reported in Lewis, Pleasants, and Upshur counties.
Widespread damage and power outages
Morrisey said on Thursday that many homes were destroyed and businesses harmed. He urged residents to report damage via an online form. Images and videos shared online show submerged vehicles, flooded homes, and streets turned into waterways.
In Upshur county, about 4.5 inches (11 cm) of rain fell in just 37 minutes. “When things like that happen, there’s no place for the water to go,” Morrisey said. As of Thursday morning, more than 6,000 residents were without power, according to Poweroutage.us.
Weather outlook and recovery
Morrisey said the main line of severe weather has moved through, but the ground remains saturated and rivers high. The state will continue monitoring conditions with the National Weather Service. He called for West Virginians to come together to help communities rebuild.
The West Virginia Department of Transportation said crews are working to clear debris, remove downed trees, and safely reopen roads. The National Weather Service in Charleston expects quiet weather through the weekend, with chances of showers and thunderstorms returning.
