NICHOLAS COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The National Weather Service in Charleston has issued a Flash Flood Warning for portions of Clay and Nicholas counties as heavy rain continues to move through the area Sunday morning.
The warning is in effect until 1:45 p.m. and includes southeastern Clay County and central Nicholas County.
According to the National Weather Service, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rainfall across the warned area. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain had already fallen by 10:41 a.m., with an additional one-half to 1 inch possible.
Forecasters said flash flooding is either ongoing or expected to begin shortly. Small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses and other low-lying or poor drainage areas are most at risk.
Communities included in the warning are Summersville, Drennan, Kesslers Cross Lanes, Muddlety, Canvas, Bickmore and Indore. The warning also includes a portion of U.S. Route 19 between mile markers 38 and 53.
The National Weather Service urges motorists to avoid driving through flooded roadways.
“Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”
Officials also advise residents to be aware of their surroundings, avoid flooded roads and report flooding to the National Weather Service by calling 800-401-9535 when it is safe to do so.
