Huntington, WV – Torrential rain and rounds of thunderstorms could swamp roads and low-lying areas across the Kentucky-Ohio-West Virginia border region starting Friday afternoon, as a Flood Watch remains in effect through late tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, heavy rainfall is expected to begin around noon and continue into the overnight hours, impacting northeast Kentucky, southeast Ohio, and southern West Virginia. Flash flooding is possible in counties including Greenup, Boyd, Lawrence (KY), Gallia, Lawrence (OH), Wayne, Mingo, Cabell, and Kanawha.
Urban flooding, overflowing creeks, and rapidly rising streams are the main concerns, especially in poor drainage areas and along flood-prone roadways like Route 52, I-64 near Huntington, and stretches of U.S. 23. Emergency officials are urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain alert and avoid driving across water-covered roads.
In cities like Charleston, Logan, Beckley, and Ashland, residents could see multiple inches of rain fall in just a few hours. This system may produce repeated downpours, heightening the flash flood risk in both rural hollows and downtown corridors.
The Flood Watch is set to expire at 2 a.m. Saturday, but more rainfall could extend threats into the weekend. Officials advise monitoring weather alerts and preparing for possible evacuations or road closures.
