West Virginia Flooded: Search and Rescue Underway

West Virginia is currently engaged in extensive search and rescue operations following severe flash floods that inundated parts of the state this week. Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed that around 500 National Guard members have been deployed to assist emergency crews. He declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to locate and save individuals.

Officials expressed concern about potential loss of life, though no exact numbers of missing persons were available as of Wednesday. The storms produced damaging winds, torrential rainfall, and mudslides, with Lewis, Pleasants, and Upshur counties reporting the most significant impacts. Upshur County, for instance, experienced about 4.5 inches of rain in just 37 minutes, leading to rapidly rising waters.

As of Thursday morning, over 6,000 residents were without power. While the main line of severe weather has passed, saturated ground and high rivers continue to pose risks. The state Department of Transportation is working to clear debris and reopen roads, with quiet weather expected through the end of the week before a chance of showers returns over the weekend.