WASHINGTON W.Va. (WVDN) –Today, Senator Jim Justice and Senator Shelley Moore Capito issued a statement following the devastating flooding in Ohio and Marion counties:
“Unfortunately, West Virginia is no stranger to flooding. As a result of the storms from this weekend, we’ve lost multiple West Virginians, and some folks are still missing. My heart breaks for the families who are grieving and those who are still waiting to hear from their loved ones. Cathy and I are certainly holding them close in our prayers.
Our first responders deserve more thanks than we could ever put into words. When the water came rushing in, they didn’t blink—they ran straight into the danger, no questions asked. That’s just who they are. They’re heroes through and through.
I’ve been talking with our emergency folks on the ground, and we’re going to do everything in our power to get help where it’s needed. When West Virginia gets knocked down, we don’t stay down. We pull the rope together and we lift each other back up. That’s exactly what we’re going to do because these folks need all of us badly right now,” said Senator Jim Justice.
“Our hearts go out to the families and communities across West Virginia who are being impacted by the devastating flooding we have seen these last few days, especially those who have lost or are missing loved ones. I am also incredibly grateful to our first responders who have been on the ground and working tirelessly. I have and will continue to closely monitor the situation, and remain in close contact with local and state officials to ensure every available resource is available and deployed as quickly as possible. I urge all West Virginians to remain cautious, and continue helping friends and neighbors in need. Although the recovery won’t happen overnight, West Virginia is strong, and we will rebuild—just as we always do,” Senator Shelley Moore Capito said.
BACKGROUND:
- Ohio County was under a flash flood warning beginning Saturday night and around 8:00 p.m., up to four inches of rain fell in just 30 minutes, causing rapid and dangerous flooding.
- Numerous roadways, homes, and neighborhoods in the area sustained significant damage.
- On Sunday, a second round of storms brought additional flash flooding across parts of the state.
- Marion County was particularly impacted, with severe damage reported in Fairmont and surrounding areas.
