RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Strong thunderstorms are moving through southeastern Raleigh and southeastern Fayette counties, bringing gusty winds and heavy rain, according to the National Weather Service.
As of 9:46 p.m. Thursday, Doppler radar tracked a line of storms extending from near Bingham to Coal City, moving east at 55 mph.
The storms could produce wind gusts up to 40 mph, which may knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.
Communities in the storm’s path include Coal City, Shady Spring, Meadow Bridge, Babcock State Park, Ghent, Beaver, Daniels, Josephine, Stanaford, Macarthur, Rainelle, Beckley, Crab Orchard, and Piney View.
The storms will also impact portions of the West Virginia Turnpike between mile markers 28 and 40, as well as Interstate 64 between mile markers 120 and 137.
Residents are advised to seek shelter if outdoors.
The heavy rain could cause localized flooding, making low-lying areas and road crossings particularly dangerous.
Officials warn against driving through flooded roads, as even a few inches of swiftly flowing water can carry vehicles away.
The storms are expected to continue moving through the region until at least 10:15 p.m.
