Charleston, W.Va. (WVDN) – Today, Governor Patrick Morrisey provided an update on statewide response and recovery efforts following the winter storm impacting West Virginia.
“This storm brought a dangerous combination of snow, ice, freezing rain, and heavy rainfall throughout the state,” said Governor Morrisey. “As the hazardous conditions remain, I am asking all West Virginians to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.”
As of Monday afternoon, approximately 12,004 customers statewide remain without power. The most heavily impacted counties include Kanawha, Lincoln, Roane, Clay, Nicholas, Boone and Webster. Utility crews are working around the clock to restore service, though restoration may take longer in areas experiencing heavy icing and downed trees. Outage numbers remain fluid and will continue to be updated.
Weather conditions continue to pose challenges across the state. While snow totals in some central areas are lower than initially forecast, freezing rain has caused significant icing, creating dangerous travel and infrastructure conditions. An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect for much of West Virginia, and prolonged below-freezing temperatures may worsen impacts and slow recovery efforts.
Since the start of this storm event, dedicated highway crews have logged nearly 44,000 equipment hours and more than 68,000 man-hours across the state. These efforts have resulted in the plowing and treatment of over 302,000 miles of road across West Virginia, utilizing almost 41,000 tons of salt and abrasive mix, as well as nearly 390,000 gallons of brine and beet-juice mixture to ensure safer travel conditions. Most major routes remain open, though isolated closures are in place due to downed trees and hazardous conditions. Motorists are asked to continue avoiding any unnecessary travel.
“Our highway crews, emergency management teams, first responders, and utility workers have been working around the clock in extremely difficult conditions to keep the rest of us safe,” said Governor Morrisey. “I applaud their professionalism and dedication as they help get us through these tough few days.”
Shelters and warming centers are available statewide. Many locations are on standby and ready to open as needed, with several currently operating in coordination with the American Red Cross and volunteer partners. Overall occupancy remains low, but capacity is available should conditions deteriorate. Residents needing shelter information are encouraged to contact West Virginia 211 or their local county non-emergency line.
The State Emergency Operations Center remains fully activated, coordinating efforts among state agencies, local governments, utilities, nonprofits, and volunteer organizations.
Hospitals across West Virginia are operating normally, and the Department of Health continues to monitor for cold-related injuries and carbon monoxide exposure. Residents are reminded never to use generators or grills indoors and to check on elderly neighbors and loved ones during the extreme cold.
The Governor has directed state departments to continue enacting their respective inclement weather that allow non-essential employees to work remotely when possible.
