Flash floods triggered by sudden, torrential rains swept through parts of northern West Virginia, killing at least five people and leaving three others missing, officials confirmed Sunday. Emergency responders continued rescue operations into the evening as the state worked to assess widespread damage to infrastructure and homes.
Between 2.5 and 4 inches of rain fell in under 30 minutes across parts of Wheeling and Ohio County, causing creeks to swell rapidly and overwhelming emergency services.
Vehicles were swept away by floodwaters, residents were forced to climb into trees for safety, and a mobile home caught fire during the chaos. Power outages affected roughly 2,500 customers in the region.
Rescue efforts were initially hampered by extensive damage to roads, bridges, and highways.
The flooding also struck Marion County, south of Wheeling, where emergency officials reported severe damage to homes, bridges, and roads. The county’s 911 line handled more than 165 emergency calls as the storms moved through.
In response to the devastation, Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency in both Ohio and Marion counties. He has mobilized the West Virginia National Guard to assist with ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
Wheeling Fire Chief Jim Blazier said crews worked through the night and into Sunday morning conducting rescues, particularly in areas along Wheeling Creek and near the Ohio River. Officials expect recovery and cleanup to take several days, if not weeks, as the full scope of the damage becomes clearer.
With input from The AP
