Overview
- Severe thunderstorms on Tuesday dumped roughly 5–7 inches of rain in parts of central and northern West Virginia, triggering rapid flash flooding and a rare flash flood emergency for Upshur, Lewis and Randolph counties.
- A U.S. Geological Survey gauge showed Sand Run at Buckhannon crested above about 10.6 feet, surpassing the 1985 record and marking an unusually fast, high rise in stream levels.
- Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a 30‑day statewide state of emergency and the West Virginia National Guard mobilized roughly 300 troops to support swiftwater rescues, debris clearance and engineering missions.
- Local officials and first responders reported dozens to hundreds of water rescues, widespread road and bridge closures, power outages and intermittent 911 or phone service, and shelters were opened for displaced residents.
- Flash flood warnings have largely expired but runoff-driven river rises continue, officials are conducting damage assessments and coordinating state and federal aid while noting the event follows earlier heavy rains this season that worsened runoff and strain on infrastructure.