FAIRMONT, WV — A powerful flash flood swept across parts of West Virginia over the weekend, claiming the lives of at least four individuals, including a 3-year-old child, and leaving four others missing. The sudden disaster has left families devastated and entire communities reeling, prompting a state of emergency in Ohio County.
Governor Patrick Morrisey described the event as a “unicorn storm,” highlighting the rare intensity of the rainfall. “Some areas saw up to four inches of rain fall in under an hour,” Morrisey said during a press conference on Sunday. “This created a life-threatening situation that caught many people off guard.” The flooding hit hardest late Saturday in Wheeling, Triadelphia, and Valley Grove, turning roads into rivers and trapping residents in their homes.
Among the dead is a young child whose identity has not been released. The other three victims were also found in flood-affected areas. Emergency responders performed at least 19 swiftwater rescues throughout the night and early morning hours. However, four people remain unaccounted for, and search efforts continue with the help of specialized teams, boats, and drones.
State agencies have deployed every available resource. The National Guard, Division of Natural Resources, and Department of Highways are working alongside local responders. The flooding has knocked out the municipal water system in Valley Grove, closed more than a dozen roads, and destroyed at least three bridges. As of Sunday afternoon, over 25,000 homes and businesses were without electricity.
In a separate but related incident, the city of Fairmont in Marion County experienced significant flooding on Sunday. An apartment building on Locust Avenue partially collapsed due to water damage. Emergency crews responded immediately, though no injuries have yet been reported at that location. Officials warn that additional flash flooding could occur, and residents are urged to remain alert and avoid flooded areas.
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood emergency for the Fairmont area, affecting nearly 46,000 people. Officials continue to warn residents against walking or driving through floodwaters. Governor Morrisey thanked first responders and volunteers for their efforts and encouraged anyone with missing loved ones or information about dangerous conditions to contact emergency services immediately. Recovery is expected to take days or even weeks.
