[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/329646962″ params=”auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true” width=”100%” height=”300″ iframe=”true” /]
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Today marks the one year anniversary of one of the most devastating disasters in West Virginia history.
The widespread flooding on June 23, 2016 struck with little warning after hours of continuing rain. Although there were flood watches, few realized the deadly potential of the rainfall which struck during the night time hours. Many were in their homes and unaware or unable to see the true scale of the high water which reached historical levels.
Eighteen West Virginia counties were declared federal disaster areas in the aftermath of the flood and 23 people lost their lives. Many others were saved by the quick action of swift water rescue teams working throughout the night to get them out of their flooded homes in boats, often from the second floor.
Posted above is a short montage of MetroNews radio coverage of the disaster during and in the days immediately following the flood.