West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey seeks federal disaster aid after July floods

Severe storms on July 21, 2026 caused extensive flooding across West Virginia, damaging infrastructure, washing out roads, and cutting power in multiple counties, including Upshur, Lewis, Barbour, Doddridge, Harrison, Pleasants, Ritchie, and others. Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a statewide emergency for all 55 counties, activated the West Virginia National Guard, and conducted search‑and‑rescue, debris removal, and water‑safety operations.

Morrisey formally requested an expedited Major Disaster Declaration from the White House so FEMA can provide Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and hazard‑mitigation funding. The governor emphasized that the scale of the disaster exceeds state and local capacities and that federal aid is essential for restoring critical services, rebuilding homes, and supporting affected businesses and families.