Pennsylvania and West Virginia – River communities across the Upper Ohio Valley have limited time to prepare as repeated rounds of heavy rain beginning Monday threaten to drive waterways toward flood stage through March 11.
According to the National Weather Service Ohio River Forecast Center, 2 to 5 inches of rain are expected across western Pennsylvania and much of West Virginia over the next seven days, with locally higher totals exceeding 7 inches. Saturated soil and steep terrain will accelerate runoff into creeks and larger river systems.
In western Pennsylvania, the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers near Pittsburgh are forecast to rise beginning Wednesday, with some gauges potentially reaching action stage by late week. Low-lying roads, riverfront trails and flood-prone neighborhoods could see water encroachment if heavier rainfall bands repeatedly track across the region.
Across West Virginia, the Kanawha, Monongahela and Ohio rivers are projected to see steady rises through midweek. Communities from Wheeling to Parkersburg and Charleston may experience scattered minor flooding late this week into early next week, especially in poor drainage areas and along smaller tributaries.
Residents should clear storm drains, secure outdoor property and never drive across water-covered roads. Additional flood watches or warnings may be issued as rainfall placement becomes clearer through March 11.
