Deadly Flash Flooding Strikes West Virginia After Torrential Overnight Rain

Heavy rainfall late Saturday overwhelmed rivers and creeks near Wheeling, West Virginia, triggering devastating flash floods that left at least five people dead and four others missing. The flooding impacted Wheeling and surrounding communities, including Triadelphia and Valley Grove.

Emergency officials from Wheeling and Ohio County reported that search efforts for the missing were paused Sunday and would resume Monday morning. The deluge—dropping 2 to 4 inches in just hours—caused Wheeling Creek to surge from 3 feet to nearly 10 feet in under two hours.

According to weather.com meteorologist Sara Tonks, the storms were fueled by a stalled weather system that had been drenching the region for days. Lou Vargo, Wheeling’s emergency management director, described the flooding as the worst he’s seen in his 35-year career, with roads washed out and homes destroyed. Authorities urged residents to avoid travel as crews worked to clear debris and assist those stranded.

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency in Ohio and Marion counties. The Wheeling-Ohio County Emergency Management Agency plans to open supply distribution centers Monday for affected residents.

Dramatic footage showed submerged vehicles in Big Wheeling Creek and flooded streets across the city. In Fairmont, part of an apartment building collapsed Sunday due to flood damage, though no injuries were reported. Displaced residents were provided emergency shelter.

With more heavy rain forecast for Monday and Tuesday, flood watches remain in effect for the area.