CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Patrick Morrisey urged residents across the Mountain State to prepare for a potentially significant winter storm expected to impact West Virginia this weekend during a briefing held Friday.
“While the forecasts may change, we want to make sure we are prepared to work together to keep our people safe,” said Governor Morrisey.
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According to the Governor, state agencies have been coordinating closely throughout the week with local emergency managers, public safety officials, utility companies, FEMA, the National Weather Service, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In addition, non-governmental, voluntary, and community organizations met Friday to review readiness plans related to food banks, shelters, and crisis response.
State officials said the State Emergency Response Center will be activated and staffed as needed to coordinate resources, with a focus on saving lives and protecting property.
The whole state is currently under a Winter Storm Warning.
Deputy Director of Emergency Management Matthew Blackwood outlined preparedness guidance for residents, addressing extreme cold, hazardous travel, and the possibility of power outages.
“This is about our response as a government, but also about the need for neighbors to look out for neighbors and plan ahead,” Blackwood said.
Residents are encouraged to review emergency supplies at home and in vehicles, including food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
Officials also recommend reviewing backup plans for medical equipment that requires electricity, checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fueling vehicles, and ensuring alternative heating sources are used safely. Pet owners are advised to bring animals indoors and include them in emergency plans.
As the storm approaches, officials urge residents to fully charge phones and medical devices, monitor trusted forecasts and official alerts, adjust travel plans early, and limit unnecessary travel once conditions deteriorate. During and after the storm, travel should be limited to essential trips only, and residents are reminded never to operate grills, generators, or fuel-burning devices indoors or near windows.
Utility companies provided outage reporting numbers: Potomac Edison at 1-800-686-0011, AEP at 1-800-956-4237, and Mon Power at 1-800-686-0022.
Anyone needing access to a warming center or food bank is encouraged to call 211 or their county emergency management office. Emergencies should be reported by calling 911.
