OAK HILL, W.Va. — Gov. Jim Justice declared a state of emergency in Fayette County Sunday night after what he described as significant local flooding.
Justice announced his declaration in a tweet and said he’d have further comment Monday.
I have declared a State of Emergency for Fayette County due to heavy rainfall this weekend that caused significant local flooding. We will have additional details in the morning. Cathy and I are praying for all those affected by this flooding. #WV #WVGov
— Governor Jim Justice (@WVGovernor) June 15, 2020
Justice’s announcement followed a local state of emergency declaration by the Fayette County Commission which reported flooding in the Oak Hill, Minden, Scarbro and Whipple areas. Some areas received more than four inches of rain Sunday. There was nickel to quarter-sized hail as part of a storm cell Sunday afternoon.
Water rescues were taking place in the Minden area Sunday night. The National Weather Service had a flash flood warning out until 1 a.m. Monday.
Flash Flood Warning continues for Oak Hill WV, Fayetteville WV, Scarbro WV until 1:00 AM EDT pic.twitter.com/IOE5JRJ1qD
— NWS Charleston, WV (@NWSCharlestonWV) June 15, 2020
Flooding was also reported Sunday in the War area of McDowell County along with parts of Clay, Gilmer and Braxton counties.
Justice’s state of emergency declaration will free up state resources to respond to the flood-damaged areas of Fayette County.