More than 30 homes impacted by Lincoln County floods

WEST HAMLIN, W.Va. –– Cleanup work is happening in a number of small communities across West Virginia after several days of pop up storms which proved to be severe. The first of those communities to get nailed by a hard pounding rain was West Hamlin in Lincoln County.  A nearby creek came out of its banks mingled with backed up storm drains which were unable to handle the amount of water the storm delivered in a brief period of time.

Last Thursday night, more than two inches of rain poured onto the tiny area in Lincoln County and left a lot of damage in is wake. Lincoln County Emergency Services Director Alan Holder said 30 homes were impacted by the water. Three homes and one business were declared a total loss in the damage assessment. The damage didn’t end there.

“There was also a great deal of damage to the public water system and the town had significant damage to the sewer system and they’re still working to replace some of the sewer lines damaged during that storm,” he explained.

The Red Cross brought victims bottled water and other relief supplies. Holder added the Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) was also extremely helpful to those who had been impacted. Their work continues.

There was a stream in the area which rapidly rose, but it was something new according to Holder.

“We’ve never seen that kind of flooding in that area ever before,” he explained.

Lincoln County emergency officials have worked to buy out more than 40 homes in the county which were impacted in previous floods, but Holder said this event revealed a whole new set of people who are now having to cleanup and know what it’s like to experience high water in their property.

It’s unclear if the area might qualify for any federal disaster assistance.





More News

News
As Yeager Airport's Wildlife Patrol Dog turns 7, a new dog comes in to learn from him
The new Border Collie is getting acclimated and receiving training for his soon-to-be role.
March 28, 2024 - 6:30 pm
News
Dunlow Volunteer Fire Department closes
The Dunlow VFD did not have a valid workers compensation insurance policy.
March 28, 2024 - 6:20 pm
News
PEIA examines financial effects of new law meant to ensure local pharmacies get fair reimbursements
Gov. Jim Justice signed Senate Bill 453 into law this week.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm
News
Barbour County woman sentenced after death case sent back to circuit court by Supreme Court
Carli Reed sentenced on voluntary manslaughter conviction.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm