West Virginia Fall Begins With Flash Flooding Risk

Charleston, West Virginia – Fall begins Tuesday with thunderstorms and a risk of flash flooding, while existing high water remains a concern in southeast Ohio.

According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, showers and thunderstorms will continue Tuesday, with storms more likely across eastern West Virginia. Isolated flash flooding is possible where heavier rain develops.

The Weather Service's excessive rainfall outlook highlights a corridor across portions of central and eastern West Virginia where the risk of excessive rainfall leading to flash flooding is higher than surrounding areas.

For motorists, flooded roads present the most immediate danger. The Weather Service advises drivers to avoid flooded roadways and turn around when encountering water covering a road.

Even where Tuesday's rainfall is lighter, flooding from previous rain remains a concern. The Weather Service said ongoing flooding will continue along rivers and larger streams in portions of southeast Ohio.

Drivers in affected communities should use extreme caution and be prepared for debris or water on roadways. Conditions can change quickly near streams, low-lying areas and roads vulnerable to high water.

The wet start to astronomical fall comes as the region continues dealing with water already moving through its river and stream systems. Additional thunderstorms Tuesday could worsen localized conditions, particularly across eastern West Virginia.

Residents should monitor updated warnings before traveling and avoid attempting to determine the depth of water covering a road. Tuesday's primary threats remain additional thunderstorms, isolated flash flooding in West Virginia and ongoing river and stream flooding across parts of southeast Ohio.