West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has declared a state of emergency as the state grapples with the aftermath of severe flash flooding that has led to at least five confirmed deaths and three individuals reported missing. The flooding has wreaked havoc across the city of Wheeling and nearby towns, including Triadelphia and Valley Grove, since late Saturday evening.
The deluge resulted in up to four inches of rain falling over a short duration, prompting major flooding along US 40 (National Road), Middle Wheeling Creek, Little Wheeling Creek, and numerous small waterways across Ohio County.
Adding to the devastation, a residential building in Fairmont, located in Marion County, partially collapsed, further escalating the urgency of the emergency declaration. Distressing footage captured emergency responders attending to the severely damaged structure, with water gushing from it.
“As flash floods continue throughout North Central West Virginia, emergency officials are on the scene in Marion County at a partial apartment collapse,” Gov. Morrisey stated in his emergency declaration. He urged residents, “Please — stay off the roads. Do not underestimate the strength and speed of these floods. Pray for our friends and neighbors during this challenging time for our state.”
Fortunately, no injuries related to the building collapse have resulted in hospitalization at this time. Authorities have set up an emergency shelter for displaced residents in the Falcon Center on the Fairmont State University campus. Reports indicate several vehicles in the apartment complex’s parking lot were damaged beyond repair.
As of Sunday afternoon, power outages remained a significant concern, affecting approximately 2,500 customers in the area. In light of the ongoing crisis, Governor Morrisey has mobilized the National Guard to assist local emergency efforts.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.