Severe flooding over the weekend caused widespread damage across Logan County and surrounding areas as heavy rainfall led to rising rivers and road closures. Emergency responders conducted multiple water rescues, and residents faced evacuations as floodwaters reached historic levels.
Logan County saw significant flooding along State Route 10, with emergency teams conducting at least 17 water rescues according to first responder Ray Bryant. The Tug Fork River in Williamson rose to 49 feet, cutting off major roads and prompting additional rescues. On Monday’s “What’s Your Opinion,” Stollings resident Judy Caldwell said the Guyandotte River ran over its banks on Saturday, flooding multiple businesses in the area.
“We’ve lived here since 1989, and we actually haven’t seen it get as high as it got. It hasn’t been normal in three or four weeks, but it was very scary on Saturday night.”
Neighboring counties, including Mingo, Wyoming, McDowell, and Mercer, also experienced severe impacts.
Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for 13 counties, mobilizing state resources to assist with response and recovery. The West Virginia Emergency Management Division is coordinating efforts, and federal assistance has been pledged following discussions with U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Infrastructure damage has been reported, including rockslides in Boone and Clay counties and road damage along Interstate 64 near Milton. Beckley recorded 1.26 inches of rain on Saturday, setting a daily rainfall record.
As floodwaters recede, falling temperatures and snowfall are adding new challenges. Snow accumulations ranged from one inch in lowlands to 11 inches in higher elevations, creating icy conditions that could complicate recovery efforts.
School closures have also been reported across the state. Eighteen counties have canceled classes entirely, with Mingo County Schools having no set date for students to return. Governor Morrisey said school closures are likely to extend into Tuesday as floodwaters persist in some areas.
"We expect that there may be some additional closures, and in fact on Tuesday, some schools may be closed given the fact that some of the flooding may continue," he said.
Another update from the governor is expected at around 11:00am Monday.
Residents are encouraged to report damage through state channels, and river levels are expected to remain high throughout Monday. With colder weather in the forecast, recovery efforts will continue in the coming days as West Virginia responds to the aftermath of the flooding.
On Sunday, Governor Morrisey announced that the state's response to the floods includes an online survey. Those impacted by the disaster can go to emd.wv.gov/disastersurvey. If you or someone you know needs help filling out the survey, call 211 between 8am and 4pm for assistance.
Meanwhile, the Main Island Creek Volunteer Fire Department has deployed tanks of water at God’s Lighthouse at Barnabus and the Stirrat Community Church. This is not for drinking, rather the water is only for cleaning and domestic purposes.
The West Logan Church is providing hot meals for victims of the weekend floods beginning at noon today. They can deliver. More information is available by calling 304-752-6695.
According to the Logan County Office of Emergency Management, a distribution site for flood supplies is at 600 Tennis Court at Holden until 7:00 tonight.
Supplies needed include buckets, mops, paper towels, gloves, brooms, bleach and personal hygiene products. To donate or to set up a drop off point for supplies, call 304-785-5896.
PHOTO | A.M. Stone