Two Studies To Look At Flood Mitigation Across State

Flash flooding has been in the spotlight nationwide – and in West Virginia – prompting Gov. Patrick Morrisey to announce two new flood mitigation studies.

The studies will be conducted by the state in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to examine flood risks and potential mitigation strategies across two watersheds.

The Kanawha River Basin Feasibility Study will explore a comprehensive array of flood risk management strategies across 20 counties, including 14 that were directly impacted by the June 2016 floods.

The Upper Guyandotte Flood Study will study the Wyoming County communities of Mullens, Pineville, and Oceana, ranked among the highest in the state for cumulative flood risk, with more than 30% of the county’s population living in the floodplain.

“We know all too well the dangers that floods pose to West Virginia. These disasters have disrupted lives, damaged infrastructure, and devastated entire communities,” Morrisey said. “With these new initiatives, we are investing in data-driven, long-term solutions that will help us better protect our people and prepare our state for challenges ahead.”

The state will contribute $3 million across both studies, matched by the federal government for a total of a $6 million investment.

The two watershed studies include portions of 9 of the 12 counties that received disaster declarations after the February 2025 flooding. Both studies will be coordinated with the West Virginia State Resiliency Office to ensure findings are integrated into broader state mitigation and preparedness plans.