Charleston, WV – Residents across southeast Ohio, northeast Kentucky, and parts of West Virginia should prepare for multiple days of heavy rain and possible severe storms through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, WV, rainfall totals could reach 3 to 6 inches in southeastern Ohio and northeastern Kentucky, with localized amounts possibly exceeding that in areas experiencing repeated thunderstorms. In West Virginia, 2 to 4 inches of rain is forecast west of a line from Charleston to Clarksburg, with lower totals expected farther east.
Storm activity is expected to increase tonight and continue into Thursday morning, bringing threats of damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes. A renewed risk for severe thunderstorms returns Thursday afternoon and evening. Wind gusts could exceed 75 mph in parts of southeast Ohio, adding to the potential for downed trees and power outages.
The heavy rain may lead to flooding concerns, especially in low-lying or poor drainage areas. Residents are urged to monitor local alerts, avoid flooded roads, and ensure multiple ways to receive warnings.
The pattern of unsettled weather is expected to persist through at least Monday, with additional rainfall potentially compounding flood risks across the tri-state region.
