Charleston, West Virginia – Drivers across parts of West Virginia and southeast Ohio could encounter flooded roads within hours Thursday as repeated rounds of heavy rain increase the risk of flash flooding along major travel corridors including I-64, I-77, I-79, and US 33 through the afternoon.
Thunderstorms moving across the Ohio Valley overnight have already saturated the ground in some areas, and additional rainfall through the day could quickly overwhelm creeks, streams, and urban drainage systems.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Flood Watch remains in effect through Thursday afternoon for portions of northwest West Virginia and southeast Ohio. Additional rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches may fall during repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms, raising the threat for flooding in low-lying areas and near small waterways.
Communities including Charleston, Parkersburg, and Ripley could experience rapid water buildup on roads if storms pass repeatedly over the same areas. Drivers traveling along I-77 between Charleston and Parkersburg or I-64 west toward Huntington may encounter ponding water, reduced visibility, and slower traffic during heavier downpours.
Across the Ohio River into Athens and Jackson, Ohio, storms may also bring intense rainfall capable of quickly flooding smaller creeks and drainage systems near US 33 and State Route 32.
Localized flash flooding could also occur outside of the watch area if stronger thunderstorms develop later Thursday afternoon and evening.
Residents are urged to monitor weather alerts and avoid driving across flooded roadways. Even shallow water can stall vehicles or sweep them off the road.
Rainfall may gradually decrease later Thursday evening, but swollen creeks and streams could remain elevated for several hours after the heaviest rain ends. Additional warnings may be issued if flooding develops.
