State of Emergency Remains in Place Despite Expected Rising Temperatures and Lowered Water Levels

  Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin said Friday the statewide State of Emergency remains in place after heavy snowfall and flooding across the state.  

“Although temperatures are expected to rise and water levels continue to decline, I encourage drivers to remain cautious while traveling,” Gov. Tomblin said in a news release. “I am extremely proud of our state’s response to this massive winter storm, and I’d like to thank all first responders, the West Virginia National Guard, local and state road crews, and all West Virginians who have worked hard to help combat this storm.”

Representatives from the Governor’s Office, the West Virginia National Guard and Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management briefed members of the West Virginia Legislature Friday on the procedures and protocols for a State of Emergency, as well as an update on current weather conditions.

According to the National Weather Service, no additional major weather concerns are expected this weekend. As waters in most areas continue to fall, local and state officials will continue to monitor the situation in the coming days.

Although residents will experience colder temperatures in the mornings, temperatures are predicted to gradually warm up through the weekend. Snow and ice melt are expected to melt slowly, so West Virginians should continue to exercise caution and prepare for cold temperatures.

For updates on warming stations, shelters, power outages, road closures and weather conditions, continue to monitor the state’s official Facebook page for the response.