CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The National Weather Service in Charleston has issued a Tornado Warning for portions of Fayette, Kanawha, Boone and Raleigh counties until 8:45 p.m. Tuesday.
As of 8:15 p.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Burnwell, about 18 miles east of Madison, and was moving east at 25 mph. Meteorologists said radar indicated rotation within the storm.
The warning includes southeastern Kanawha County, eastern Boone County, western Fayette County and north central Raleigh County.
Communities expected to be impacted include Montgomery, Burnwell and Powellton around 8:20 p.m., followed by Smithers around 8:25 p.m. Other locations in the storm’s path include Handley, Leewood, Dawes, Sharon and Eskdale.
According to the National Weather Service, flying debris will be dangerous to anyone caught outside without shelter. Mobile homes could be damaged or destroyed, while damage to roofs, windows, vehicles and trees is also possible.
Residents in the warning area are urged to take cover immediately by moving to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and staying away from windows. Those outdoors, in vehicles or in mobile homes should move to the nearest substantial shelter.
The storm is also producing torrential rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding. The National Weather Service warns that heavy rain may hide a tornado and urges residents not to wait to see or hear one before taking shelter. Motorists are also advised not to drive through flooded roadways.
