CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Residents across large portions of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio are on alert as heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding starting this morning and continuing through the evening. The risk of rising water impacts creeks, streams, and low-lying areas across the Ohio Valley.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch is in effect from 11 a.m. Tuesday until this evening for dozens of counties. The watch areas cover a wide swath of the region, including Charleston, Huntington, and Parkersburg in West Virginia; Ashland, Pikeville, and portions of eastern Kentucky; and southern Ohio cities like Portsmouth, Athens, and Marietta. Forecasters warn that excessive runoff from torrential downpours could quickly overwhelm drainage systems.
Saturated ground from recent rainfall elevates the risk, meaning flooding could develop rapidly. In Kentucky, affected counties include Pike, Floyd, and Martin. The watch also extends to nearly all of West Virginia, from McDowell County to Harrison County, and includes southeast Ohio counties along the river.
Officials advise residents in flood-prone locations to monitor conditions closely and be prepared to take action if warnings are issued. Motorists are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways. The threat of excessive rainfall is expected to diminish by late Tuesday night, but authorities will continue to monitor waterways.
