North Central West Virginia is bracing for a multi-day stretch of rain and severe storms that forecasters warn could trigger widespread flooding before the week is over. While temperatures will remain in the low-to-mid 80s at lower elevations and 70s at higher elevations — slightly below average — residents should not be misled by the cooler conditions. The real danger this week is water.
Forecasters say the combination of daily disturbances and approaching frontal systems will keep storm chances alive every day from Wednesday through Sunday. The warm, extremely humid air mass in place will fuel heavy rainfall totals across the region. By the end of the week, most of NCWV is expected to see at least 1 inch of rain — but some areas could receive more than 3 inches.
Key threats this week
- 1″–3″+ rainfall total across NCWV
- Isolated severe storms possible Wednesday–Thursday
- Rising creek, river, and drainage levels Thursday–Saturday
- Highest flood risk Friday through Saturday
Thursday marks the start of the most dangerous window. A cold front advancing from the north is expected to push through the region Thursday through Saturday, bringing the most widespread and persistent rainfall of the entire week. With soils already saturated from earlier storms, water will have nowhere to go — drainage systems, low-lying areas, creeks, and rivers are all expected to see rising and potentially dangerous levels during this period.
Flash flooding is possible even on Wednesday and Thursday with slow-moving or heavy storms, but the greatest threat arrives as the front stalls and the ground becomes fully saturated. Residents in flood-prone areas, near waterways, or in low-lying neighborhoods should closely monitor conditions and be ready to act quickly. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads.
Stay tuned for updates as conditions develop throughout the week. If a Flash Flood Watch or Warning is issued for your area, move to higher ground immediately and avoid any contact with flood water.
