West Virginia Deploys National Guard After Flash Floods Dump 7 Inches Of Rain
West Virginia deployed the National Guard after flash floods dumped up to 7 inches of rain on Tuesday night, July 21, 2026, prompting a statewide emergency declaration and rescue missions in northern counties.[1]
Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties and ordered 500 National Guard members to the hardest-hit areas.[1] Officials said 19 Guard and state police helicopters were on rescue missions or standing by.[1] They said more than 100 people were rescued from floodwaters, some residents remained unaccounted for, and three shelters were housing over 100 people.[1]
Forecasters reported up to 7 inches of rain in places, including about 4.5 inches in 37 minutes in some locations, which washed out bridges and flooded homes and businesses.[1]
Rescue and recovery operations remained underway as state and local officials assessed damage and worked to reach isolated communities.[1]
Show source details & analysis (1 source)
📌 Key Facts
- On Tuesday night, July 21, 2026, Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for all 55 West Virginia counties.
- Morrisey deployed 500 National Guard members to hard-hit northern counties and said 19 Guard and state police helicopters were on rescue missions or on standby.
- Officials reported more than 100 people rescued from floodwaters, with some residents unaccounted for and three shelters opened housing over 100 people.
- Forecasters said up to 7 inches of rain fell, including about 4.5 inches in 37 minutes in some locations, washing out bridges and flooding homes and businesses.
📰 Source Timeline (1)
Follow how coverage of this story developed over time