Severe Flash Flooding Ravages Eastern Kanawha County – Stay Informed!

Kanawha County, West Virginia, is currently dealing with a major flash flood emergency that has forced authorities to announce urgent warnings to residents to move up. 

The constant downpour has resulted in massive flooding, which has caused the destruction of homes, buildings, and roads. As the crisis unfolds emergency response personnel are working hard to help those impacted and ensure their safety.

Flash Flooding and State of Emergency: 

PLEASE SEND US PHOTOS AND VIDEOS OF FLOODING DAMAGE
August 28, 2023

‼️‼️ We are asking that you please send us any photos and videos of affected areas. Having photo evidence of the flooding event will be helpful in getting financial assistance in the coming weeks/months. pic.twitter.com/o8ekE6v265

— Kanawha County (@kanawhaus) August 28, 2023

Kanawha County Emergency Services Director C.W. Sigman has emphasized the seriousness of the emergency, and urged people living in the eastern region of Kanawha County to take immediate action and look for higher ground in the wake of current flash flooding. The region has seen massive rainfall, which has led to excessive levels of water in streams and creeks, such as Witcher Creek, Kelley’s Creek as well and Fields Creek. Water rescue efforts are being conducted to ensure the safety of the affected residents.

Flash Flood Warning continues for Chesapeake WV, Marmet WV and Belle WV until 2:00 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/8xuCJj5kmi

— NWS Charleston, WV (@NWSCharlestonWV) August 28, 2023

To address the emergency In response to the situation, in response to the crisis, Kanawha County Commission has declared the county a State of Emergency, recognizing the urgent nature of the situation and mobilizing resources to deal with the floods that are widespread. In response to the flooding, the National Weather Service has classified the flash flood warning as life-threatening stressing the importance of people avoiding driving through flood waters and putting safety first everything other things.

Help and Emergency Assistance

 The Kanawha County Emergency Operations Center is working to coordinate efforts to offer assistance to those who are affected. Numerous agencies and teams have been enlisted to perform water rescues as well as provide emergency assistance. Rapid water rescue teams from all over West Virginia have been deployed into the region to help those who are stranded at home and assist in their removal to higher levels.

Governor Jim Justice has declared a State of Emergency in several counties which include Kanawha, Braxton, Calhoun, Clay, and Roane County. In addition, the West Virginia National Guard has been activated, providing vital services like the All-Hazards rapid water rescue team, as well as aircraft such as the UH-72 Lakota as well as the UH-60M Blackhawk helicopters. The assets are being prepared to provide quick and effective emergency assistance.

Precautions and Safety Measures:

‼️ MORE RAIN COMING ‼️

Metro 911 and Kanawha County Officials have been advised by the National Weather Service that moderate rain is moving in to the area in the next 30 minutes. There is a potential for a ½” to 1” of rain.

1/

— Kanawha County (@kanawhaus) August 28, 2023

1. Find Higher Ground residents living in flooding-prone zones should immediately move towards higher ground. Avoid areas that are low-lying and near water bodies, which are prone to flooding.
2. Keep up-to-date: Stay tuned to local news updates as well as reliable sources that provide the most up-to-date details on the situation with regard to flooding evacuation routes and safety guidelines.
3. Avoid driving through Floodwaters: Do not attempt to drive on flooded roads or areas that are flooded with standing water. Reverse and locate alternative routes to protect yourself.
4. Evacuation When authorities give evacuation instructions, comply immediately. Prepare to leave your home in the event that the situation becomes more serious.
5. Survival Kit Prepare an emergency plan ready, with important items like non-perishable food and water, medicines clothes, and important documents.
6. Stay indoors: During heavy rainfall and flooding, remain inside and avoid journeys. Stay informed about the weather forecast in order to be aware of any changes in the weather.

Additional Information:

• Warnings for flash floods have been put currently in place for several areas of Kanawha County, including Clendenin and Elkview regions.
• Authorities are proactively addressing water rescues and are providing assistance to those impacted.
• This Governor’s decision to declare a State of Emergency ensures access to the resources of the West Virginia National Guard for an organized response.
• While there have been a number of rescues in the water there are not any reports of missing people or victims.

Final Words

As Kanawha County faces the devastating effects on residents from flooding flashes warned them to be aware of the warnings and find higher ground to protect themselves. The collective effort of government officials, emergency response personnel along with local community members are working to tackle the immediate issues and minimize the damage wrought by the flood. Despite the devastating effects of the flooding, the main focus is on protecting lives and minimizing the number of casualties.