West Virginia declares a state of emergency due to significant flooding
West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice declared the State of Emergency for Cabell, Putnam, and Roane counties on May 7, 2022, due to heavy rainfall that caused significant local flooding. On May 8, the declaration was expanded to include the counties of Ohio, Marshall, Wetzel, Marion, Monongalia, Harrison, Taylor and Tucker.
A severe rainstorm caused flooding, power outages, and road blockages in parts of West Virginia on May 6, resulting in the death of at least 1 person.
One of the worst affected areas was the city of Huntington where a large-scale flooding event caused severe damage and disruption of utility services.
Mayor of the city, Steve Williams, declared a local state of emergency, saying that it’s a critical step to ensure that recovery and funding resources are delivered quickly.
“It also is a vital step in raising public awareness about the severity of this unprecedented flood event, which has resulted in several inches of rain during a short period of time,” Williams said.
With the declaration of the State of Emergency, the West Virginia Governor has authorized the West Virginia Division of Emergency Management to support local counties and to use all State resources necessary.
The State Emergency Operations Center is coordinating with officials in the declaration area to determine their needs.
The State of Emergency will remain in effect for thirty days unless terminated by subsequent Proclamation.
References:
1 Gov. Justice declares State of Emergency for three counties affected by flooding; State of Preparedness remains in effect – Office of the West Virginia Governor – May 7, 2022
2 USA – Emergency Declared After Deadly Flash Floods in West Virginia – FloodList – May 8, 2022
Featured image credit: JS Media (stillshot)
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