National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Overview

On Thursday, June 23, 2016, several rounds of thunderstorms producing torrential rainfall over nearly the same area moved southeast through portions of the central Appalachians.  These storms were associated with a nearly stationary frontal boundary which helped to focus an extremely moist air mass. The diverse topography of the area likely enhanced rainfall intensity - resulting in catastrophic flash flooding, historic river flooding, and 23 fatalities in West Virginia.

 

Thousands of homes and business were damaged or destroyed, and road repair costs alone were expected to exceed 50 million dollars. The fatalities were the highest in the state of West Virginia since November 1985 floods when 47 died.  During the flooding, numerous water rescues and evacuations were conducted, and more than 2000 people were temporarily displaced.  A State of Emergency was declared by the Governor of West Virginia for 12 counties.

Rainfall Estimates from June 23rd, 2016
Rainfall Estimates from KFCX Dual Pol Radar
Collage of flooding and weather images Radar Loop  
Collage of flooding photos Radar Loop  
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