West Virginia and Charleston address flood relief and risk management

A federal disaster declaration has been signed for Kanawha, Fayette, and Harrison counties in West Virginia following significant flooding between August 16 and 18. President Donald Trump signed the declaration to provide individual assistance to residents affected by the storms. Local officials, including Kanawha County Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director C. W. Sigman, noted that high survey completion rates helped meet the thresholds required for federal aid.

Disaster Recovery Centers are being established to allow victims to meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives. In Charleston, residents can apply for assistance via the FEMA app, the official website, or by phone.

In a separate flood management effort, Charleston is conducting public meetings to discuss a Tidal and Interior Flood Risk Management Study. The project aims to develop strategies to mitigate risks from heavy rainfall, high tides, and rising sea levels in areas including the Charleston peninsula, West Ashley, and James Island. Public input on these mitigation tactics is being collected through October 16.