Charleston, West Virginia – Moderate to heavy rain will spread across the eastern Ohio Valley tonight, raising the risk of flooding along creeks, rivers and major interstate corridors before the Friday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service Ohio River Forecast Center, widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 1.5 inches are expected across West Virginia and southwest Pennsylvania through Friday morning, with localized higher amounts possible. The highest threat for significant impacts centers on the Kanawha and Monongahela River basins, especially along smaller tributaries that respond quickly to intense rainfall.
Communities near I-79 from Morgantown to Fairmont, I-68 through Preston County, and I-70 near Washington, Pennsylvania could see rapid ponding on roadways overnight. In West Virginia, areas along I-64 in Charleston and I-77 near Parkersburg should prepare for sharp rises on small streams and water-covered secondary roads.
Forecasters indicate the heaviest rain will fall between 7 p.m. Thursday and early Friday morning. Exact placement of the most intense bands remains uncertain, but confidence is growing that several smaller waterways will approach bankfull by sunrise Friday.
Drivers should never cross flooded roadways and should monitor 511 systems for updated travel conditions. Residents in flood-prone valleys should clear storm drains, secure outdoor belongings and keep mobile devices charged in case warnings are issued overnight.
River levels are expected to continue rising into Friday afternoon, and additional Flood Advisories or Warnings may be issued as runoff moves downstream.
