Charleston, West Virginia – A surge of heavy rain could trigger flash flooding across parts of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio beginning this afternoon and lasting into the early hours of Saturday. Low-lying areas and urban streets in cities like Charleston, Huntington, and Ashland face the greatest risk of flooding due to excessive runoff from repeated rounds of thunderstorms.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a Flood Watch is in effect from noon Friday until 2 a.m. Saturday for 24 counties spanning northeast Kentucky, southeast Ohio, southwest Virginia, and central to southern West Virginia. Forecasters warn that creeks and small rivers could rise rapidly, particularly in poor drainage zones and hilly terrain.
In West Virginia, areas including Kanawha, Boone, and Wyoming counties should prepare for localized flash flooding. Major roads such as U.S. Route 52 and I-64 may experience water over pavement during peak rainfall. The threat extends into southeastern Ohio and northeastern Kentucky, including Gallia and Carter counties.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roads, move valuables from basements, and monitor weather alerts closely. Power outages and washed-out rural routes remain possible if storms train over the same areas.
The Flood Watch remains active through late tonight. Additional warnings may follow if rain bands intensify or stall.
