Ice, Flash Flooding Trigger Preparedness Declaration For Entire State

As flooding and winter storm concerns continue to affect residents across the Mountain State, the governor has placed all 55 counties under a state of preparedness.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared the state of preparedness Wednesday evening. He cited National Weather Service (NWS) reports that a “significant winter storm” was anticipated to bring strong winds and freezing rains to West Virginia, with localized flooding in some regions of the state.

Across West Virginia, cities and towns have reported that flash flooding from the storm has inundated local roadways and closed businesses and schools.

The state of preparedness will remain in effect through Friday, Feb. 7, according to a Wednesday press release from the governor’s office.

This marks Morrisey’s first state of preparedness declaration since he took office Jan. 13. As governor, Morrisey is responsible for invoking emergency preparedness declarations to make the public aware of adverse weather conditions and prepare emergency response personnel and resources. 

For more information on local weather trends, Morrisey’s office recommended that residents visit the NWS website. Visit the following links for weather updates in your region:

• Northern Panhandle: NWS Pittsburgh forecast office website.
• Eastern Panhandle: NWS Baltimore/Washington forecast office website.
• Southeast West Virginia: NWS Blacksburg, Va. forecast office website.
• All other regions: NWS Charleston forecast office website.