CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Governor Patrick Morrisey has declared a State of Emergency in Boone and Lincoln Counties. The overnight declaration followed hours of intense rainfall which caused streams and creeks in those areas to rise.
“Our emergency responders are working to protect West Virginians as flooding continues to impact communities in Boone and Lincoln counties,” Governor Morrisey said in an overnight news release. “I urge everyone in the affected areas to remain alert, avoid flooded roadways, and follow instructions from local emergency officials. We are making state resources available to support communities and first responders wherever they are needed.”
The heaviest damage appeared to be in the Morrisvale area of Boone County where bridges and roads were washed out by swollen waterways. Several residents looked on as water rose up in their yards and around their homes.
There were a number of rescues from those stranded in their homes amid the rising water. Swiftwater rescue teams from a number of agencies and fire departments were active in the region.
The State of Emergency allows state agencies to coordinate and deploy personnel, equipment, and other resources necessary to support local emergency response and recovery operations.
It’s the latest high water event after a summer which featured multiple floods in various counties all across West Virginia. It’s the second time in three months Boone County has been affected. Flooding in late June caused heavy damage along Pond Fork in the community of Van and Wharton.
The Governor’s declaration is in effect for 30 days.