CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Gov. Patrick Morrisey has declared a State of Preparedness for all 55 West Virginia counties as multiple rounds of severe weather are expected to impact the state beginning Tuesday.
According to the governor’s office, a series of storm systems is forecast to bring severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, torrential rainfall, flash flooding, possible landslides and isolated tornadoes through the state. Officials warned that heavy rainfall could quickly overwhelm streams, creeks, drainage systems and roadways, creating hazardous travel conditions and localized road closures.
The State of Preparedness is intended to ensure state agencies and local emergency partners are ready to rapidly deploy resources, monitor conditions and respond to emergencies across West Virginia.
Under the declaration, issued pursuant to West Virginia Code § 15-5-6, the governor has activated the State Emergency Operations Plan to coordinate statewide resources and response efforts, directed key personnel and emergency assets to prepare for mobilization as conditions change, and delegated administrative authority to the director of the West Virginia Emergency Management Division to help ensure the efficient delivery of emergency services.
The declaration will remain in effect for 14 days unless it is ended by a subsequent proclamation.
State officials are urging residents to closely monitor weather forecasts, have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts, and avoid driving through flooded roads or standing water during the severe weather event.
