West Virginia flash floods kill two, rescue over 100 residents

Heavy rain on July 21‑22 2026 dumped up to seven inches in minutes across north‑central West Virginia, overwhelming creeks and rivers in Upshur, Lewis and neighboring counties. Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a statewide emergency, dispatched more than 500 National Guard troops and 19 helicopters, and opened shelters for displaced residents.

More than 100 people were rescued from flooded homes, businesses and vehicles, but two victims were confirmed dead and several others remained missing for days. The flooding washed out bridges, closed sections of Interstate 79 and U.S. Route 48, and inundated a hotel lobby in Weston and a Walmart in Buckhannon. Community groups, churches and volunteers provided shelter, supplies and a resource hub while officials urged residents to complete a state‑run survey for recovery assistance.