MCDOWELL COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for western McDowell County as heavy thunderstorms move through the area Monday evening.
The warning remains in effect until 10:15 p.m. and includes communities such as Welch, War, Bradshaw, Iaeger, Jolo, Avondale, Stacy, Roseann and Coalwood.
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 as of 7:14 p.m., with an additional 0.5 to 1 inch possible through the evening.
Forecasters said flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. Flooding may affect small creeks and streams, roads, highways, underpasses, urban areas and other low-lying or poorly drained locations.
Officials urge motorists to avoid driving through flooded roadways, reminding the public to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” as most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.
Residents who observe flooding are encouraged to report it to local emergency services or law enforcement so the information can be relayed to the National Weather Service when it is safe to do so.
