WESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Lewis County officials are urging residents to stay off the roads and avoid self-deploying to flood-affected areas after heavy rainfall Tuesday evening caused significant flooding across the county.
In a press release issued Wednesday, the Lewis County Commission said first responders continue working throughout the county to keep residents safe while rescue and recovery efforts remain underway.
A temporary shelter has been established at Lewis County High School for anyone displaced by the flooding or in need of a safe place to stay.
Officials ask anyone wishing to report a missing or unaccounted-for person to contact the West Virginia State Police at 304-637-0200. All other emergencies should be reported by calling 911.
Multiple road closures remain in effect to support rescue and cleanup operations. Officials said U.S. Route 33 is closed toward Weston from the Interstate 79 intersection, while U.S. Route 19 is closed toward Weston from Jackson’s Mill Road to the Bendale Division of Highways Garage.
Motorists are urged not to travel unless absolutely necessary and to obey all road closure signs.
County officials also asked the public not to self-deploy to assist with response efforts and requested that no physical donations be sent at this time, noting that donations will be needed later as recovery efforts continue.
Emergency crews are staging at the Burger King off U.S. Route 33.
Meanwhile, the Lewis County Family Resource Network is now accepting donations for residents impacted by the flooding. Donations can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the organization’s office located at 240 Court Avenue in Weston, next to the CVS drive-thru.
The organization said its most urgently needed items include baby diapers and pull-ups, contractor trash bags, shovels, dehumidifiers, adult waterproof boots, disinfecting wipes, bleach, laundry detergent, extension cords and bottled water.
Additional requested supplies include baby wipes, waterproof gloves, buckets, mops, baby formula, hygiene products, toilet paper, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, cleaning wipes and electrolytes.
The Family Resource Network said additional drop-off locations and volunteer opportunities will be announced as they become available and encouraged residents to continue checking for updates.
