WHEELING, W.Va. — Catastrophic flooding in northern West Virginia has claimed at least four lives, including a young child, while emergency teams search for several missing individuals. The region experienced intense rainfall that overwhelmed drainage systems and local waterways, prompting Governor Patrick Morrisey to declare a state of emergency.
During a press conference on Sunday, Governor Morrisey reported the fatalities and indicated that rescue efforts are underway for at least four people still unaccounted for following the severe storms that struck overnight on June 14. “This is a very challenging time for Ohio County and the state as a whole,” he stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Reports from local news outlets indicate that the Ohio County area received between 2.5 and 4 inches of rain within a brief 30-minute period. This sudden downpour led to flash flooding, causing significant infrastructural damage and trapping residents in their homes. “We’ve never experienced anything like this here before,” said Lou Vargo, the county’s emergency management director, reflecting on his 35 years in public safety.
Authorities from multiple agencies, including the Ohio County Emergency Management Agency and Federal Emergency Management Agency, are collaborating in the rescue efforts. Vargo noted that 19 swift water rescues were executed as the flooding unfolded. “The situation escalated rapidly, and we received numerous 911 calls from people needing help,” he said.
The vehicular chaos unfolded as cars were swept away by surging waters, forcing individuals to take refuge in trees. Compounding the disaster, a fire broke out amid the flooding, further straining emergency response capabilities. Police spokesperson Phillip Stahl described the scene as one of unparalleled devastation, with colossal debris being carried downstream. “It was an unbelievable sight — boats, furniture, and even shipping containers were swept away,” he remarked.
As recovery efforts continue, Governor Morrisey announced that damage assessments would commence shortly. As of early Sunday afternoon, around 2,500 residents were without power, and drinking water supplies had been disrupted in some areas, such as Apple Grove. In addition, numerous roads and bridges across the county remained closed, complicating emergency responses.
The Ohio County Emergency Management Agency has made resources available for impacted residents, providing guidance on how to report missing persons and access emergency shelters. “Our foremost priority is to locate the missing individuals and ensure everyone’s safety,” Governor Morrisey affirmed, reiterating the commitment to support the affected community during this crisis.
With recovery efforts still in their early stages, local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as the situation develops. As teams continue their search and assessment, the community will undoubtedly face the long road ahead to rebuild and recover from this catastrophic event.