CHARLESTON — As snow begins to melt across West Virginia, emergency officials are urging residents in Charleston, Morgantown and surrounding communities to take new dripping sounds inside their homes seriously.
That drip you hear tonight may not be harmless meltwater.
As temperatures rise after heavy snowfall, ice dams can form along roof edges, particularly in mountainous and wooded areas where snow accumulation was deeper. When melting snow refreezes near gutters, water can back up beneath shingles and seep into ceilings and walls.
If you hear dripping:
• Check ceilings directly above the sound for damp spots, bubbling paint or discoloration.
• Place a container under active drips to limit interior damage.
• If drywall appears swollen and water is visibly pooling, carefully relieve pressure only if it is safe to do so.
Officials also warn about pipe thaw stress. As frozen pipes begin to warm, small fractures can begin leaking before a full break occurs.
If you suspect a pipe issue:
• Shut off the main water supply immediately.
• Open faucets to relieve pressure.
• Contact a licensed professional if leaking continues.
Residents should also clear snow away from foundations and ensure downspouts are not blocked as meltwater increases.
Authorities emphasize that post-blizzard damage often develops during the first thaw cycle.
Across Charleston and Morgantown, homeowners are urged not to ignore new sounds tonight.
After a storm, a small drip can quickly turn into major interior damage if left unchecked.
