Marlinton, West Virginia – Heavy downpours combined with melting mountain snow could push small streams over their banks before daybreak Friday, threatening low-water crossings and rural roads across Pocahontas County.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday morning for both northwest and southeast Pocahontas County, including Snowshoe and Marlinton. Forecasters expect quick-hitting rainfall totals of 0.75 to 1.00 inch within stronger thunderstorms. With streams already elevated, even brief bursts of rain could trigger localized flooding.
Creeks feeding the Greenbrier River are running high, and runoff from elevations above 3,500 feet — including areas near Snowshoe Mountain — will add snow and ice melt into the watershed. Route 219 near Marlinton and secondary mountain roads near Cass and Slatyfork could see water ponding overnight, especially in poor drainage areas.
Emergency officials urge residents to avoid driving through water-covered roads and to secure outdoor items that could wash downstream. Those in flood-prone locations should stay alert for possible Flood Warnings if rainfall intensifies.
The flood threat continues through Friday morning, with additional alerts possible if storms repeatedly track over the same terrain.
