BUCKHANNON, W.Va. (AP) — Gov. Patrick Morrisey says West Virginia’s response to widespread flooding remains focused on saving lives as state and federal agencies continue search, rescue, and recovery efforts across the hardest-hit communities.
After surveying flood damage with the West Virginia National Guard on Wednesday, Morrisey said emergency crews will remain on the ground for as long as necessary.
“Protecting lives and helping these communities recover remains our top priority,” Morrisey said. “While the worst of the weather has moved through, our work is far from over.”
State officials said approximately 85 people have been rescued during the past 20 hours.
The West Virginia Division of Highways has deployed more than 3,100 employees and over 300 pieces of heavy equipment to reopen roads, repair damaged infrastructure, remove debris, and restore access throughout affected areas.
Utility crews continue working to restore electricity to about 12,366 customers statewide. Meanwhile, the West Virginia National Guard, State Police, and Natural Resources Police remain engaged in search, rescue, and recovery operations.
Although the heaviest rainfall has ended, officials warned that saturated ground and swollen waterways continue to pose significant hazards. State emergency officials remain in close contact with the National Weather Service to monitor conditions.
Emergency shelters remain open in Buckhannon, Weston, and Philippi, and FEMA personnel are coordinating with state and local officials to begin preliminary damage assessments as soon as it is safe to do so.
“This recovery won’t happen overnight, but the people of West Virginia should know they are not facing it alone,” Morrisey said. “We’ll continue working with our local, state, and federal partners until these communities have the support they need to recover.”
