MASON COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Heavy rainfall that approached seven inches in parts of Mason County caused significant flooding Thursday morning, prompting Mason County Schools to close for the day.
Heavy thunderstorms moved through the area overnight Wednesday into Thursday, dumping several inches of rain across portions of the county and leaving roads and low-lying areas flooded.
The National Weather Service in Charleston issued a Flash Flood Warning early Thursday morning for northern Mason County and surrounding areas as thunderstorms continued to produce heavy rainfall.
The warning included Point Pleasant, New Haven, Henderson, Leon, Lakin, Letart, Southside and other nearby communities.
According to the National Weather Service, flash flooding of small creeks and streams, roads, streets, underpasses and other low-lying and poor-drainage areas was occurring or expected.
The warning remains in effect until 11 AM.
The storms began impacting the county late Wednesday night. At 11:19 p.m., the National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for north-central Mason County and warned that torrential rainfall accompanying the storms could lead to flash flooding.
By early Thursday morning, flooding and hazardous road conditions prompted Mason County Schools to close schools for the day.
Multiple roads in Mason and Jackson counties are closed.
Motorists are urged not to attempt to drive through flooded roadways. The National Weather Service advises drivers to “Turn around, don’t drown” when encountering high water.
