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West Virginia Declares Emergency After Fatal Flash Floods

7/24/2026

45 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for 55 West Virginia counties after flash floods killed two people, deploying 500 National Guard members.
Floods resulted in damage to 1,000 homes and businesses, power loss for 6,000 customers, closure of Interstate 79 near the Jane Lew exit, and 85 rescues with 19 helicopters.
Rainfall peaked at 7 inches, causing Sand Run to crest above 10.6 feet and break the 1985 record.

History

Historical Context

In late January 1937 the Ohio River flooded five states, leaving about one million homeless and prompting the Flood Control Act of 1936 that funded new levees and dams. Echoing that response, Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a West Virginia emergency in 2024 when Sand Run exceeded 10 feet, leading to National Guard activation and renewed calls for stricter zoning and watershed investment.

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Story summary

Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for 55 West Virginia counties after flash floods killed two people, deploying 500 National Guard members.
Floods resulted in damage to 1,000 homes and businesses, power loss for 6,000 customers, closure of Interstate 79 near the Jane Lew exit, and 85 rescues with 19 helicopters.
Rainfall peaked at 7 inches, causing Sand Run to crest above 10.6 feet and break the 1985 record.

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