West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has declared a state of emergency in eight counties for flooding from heavy rains.
National Weather Service Charleston, WV, said that saturated soils and continued rainfall are leading to flash and other forms of flooding across the West Virginia mountains, adding that “this is a life threatening situation for many folks who have had their fill of rain.”
The governor’s office said in a statement that the State of Emergency is currently for the counties of Jefferson, Berkeley, Morgan, Hampshire, Mineral, Grant, Hardy, and Pendleton.
The statement added: “The Governor has authorized the use of all state assets needed and directed the West Virginia State Police and West Virginia Army National Guard to assist. The State Emergency Operations Center and Morgan County Emergency Operations Center have been activated and are coordinating with officials in the declaration area to determine their needs. Swift water rescue teams from the National Guard and other surrounding areas are currently performing emergency evacuations.”
According to the National Weather Service the Cacapon River near Great Cacapon, Opequon Creek near Martinsburg and the Shenandoah River at Millville have all reached moderate flood stage. NWS said that several points along the Potomac river are forecast to reach minor or moderate flood stage.
Around 62 mm of rain was recorded in 24 hours to 03 June in Elkins.
