Four Dead, Four Missing in West Virginia Flash Flooding

Flash flooding in northern West Virginia, particularly in Ohio County, has resulted in at least four deaths and four people missing, with rescue teams actively searching for those unaccounted for. The flooding was caused by a sudden downpour of 2.5 to 4 inches of rain in about half an hour, leading Governor Patrick Morrisey to declare a state of emergency to mobilize additional resources including the National Guard. The severe weather has caused significant infrastructure damage, hampering rescue efforts, and prompting evacuations and water rescues in nearby Marion County. Authorities have urged residents to avoid traveling on flooded roads due to ongoing storm threats and hazardous conditions. Displaced residents are being sheltered at Elm Grove Elementary in Wheeling, and emergency services continue to search submerged areas for victims. The governor and local officials emphasize the need for public cooperation and caution as the situation develops.