Beckley, West Virginia – Overnight flash flooding is threatening multiple communities across southern West Virginia as intense thunderstorms dump up to 2 inches of rain, prompting several urgent warnings through 1 a.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, flash flood warnings are in effect for southeastern Logan, central Raleigh, and much of Wyoming and Fayette counties. Doppler radar showed slow-moving storms producing an additional inch of rainfall per hour, with localized flooding already underway in Beckley, Gilbert, Oceana, and Mount Nebo.
Low-lying roads, including rural routes near R.D. Bailey Lake and Twin Falls State Park, are especially at risk. Emergency officials urge residents to avoid travel, especially on routes prone to runoff or past creeks and underpasses. Nighttime flooding is particularly dangerous due to reduced visibility.
Cities like Mullens, Crab Orchard, and Mallory may see rapidly rising water in drainage ditches and small streams. This system follows days of saturated ground, increasing runoff risks.
Warnings remain in effect through early Friday morning, with more alerts possible if storms redevelop. Residents should stay weather-aware and report flooding to authorities when safe.
