Charleston, WV – Heavy rainfall and potential flooding are expected across the Ohio Valley, with a flood watch in effect for parts of West Virginia, southeast Ohio, and southwest Virginia through 8 a.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms beginning Wednesday night may drop up to 5.5 inches of rain in localized areas, especially near Chillicothe, Jackson, and Portsmouth, Ohio. Flash flooding of streams and rivers is likely, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas of Charleston, Parkersburg, and Huntington in West Virginia.
The heaviest rainfall is forecast through early Saturday morning, with additional storms into Sunday. Southeast Ohio is expected to see 3 to 5 inches, while western West Virginia and parts of northeast Kentucky could receive over 4 inches. Mountain regions in Virginia may see lighter totals under 1 inch.
Residents should monitor local alerts, avoid water-covered roads, and be ready to act quickly if flooding occurs. The Weather Prediction Center warns of increased flood risk due to repeated storms tracking along a stalled front.
Preparedness tips include checking sump pumps, avoiding unnecessary travel, and staying informed through local emergency channels.
