CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Residents across much of West Virginia, southeast Ohio, and western Pennsylvania should prepare for potential flash flooding as heavy rainfall moves into the region Sunday afternoon. The threat of inundated streets and rapidly rising creeks is expected to develop by noon and continue through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch is in effect from noon until this evening for dozens of counties. The alerts, issued by NWS offices in Charleston and Pittsburgh, cover a wide area including Charleston, Parkersburg, and Huntington in West Virginia; Marietta in Ohio; and Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania. Forecasters predict multiple rounds of heavy showers capable of producing 1 to 2 inches of rain per hour.
Some localized areas could see rainfall totals exceed 3 inches. This intense precipitation may overwhelm storm drains and cause streams and rivers to swell, leading to extensive street flooding. Officials advise residents in low-lying and flood-prone locations to pay close attention to later updates.
Motorists are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways. Be prepared to take action if a Flash Flood Warning is issued for your area. The watch remains active through Sunday evening.
