- Severe flash flooding hit North Central West Virginia on August 17, triggering emergency water rescues and road closures across the region.
- Harrison County alone has logged more than 10 water rescues since the afternoon, with conditions still developing.
- Multiple roads including Route 19 and I-79 are affected, with some routes completely shut down in both directions.
- Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads and stay updated as the situation continues to unfold.
BRIDGEPORT, West Virginia — Floodwaters rose fast across North Central West Virginia on Sunday, catching drivers off guard and forcing emergency crews into action.
By mid-afternoon, rescue teams in Harrison County had already responded to more than 10 water rescues — and the number continued to climb as rain kept falling across the region.
Roads are shutting down fast
The flooding has forced closures on several key roads across Harrison County, with high water making travel dangerous or impossible in multiple directions.
Johnson Avenue at Vista Drive is closed in both directions due to high water. Lucas Road at Roberts Run Road is also fully shut down. US Route 19 near Farnum Road is blocked in both directions as well.
Wilsonburg Road at Daily Street suffered a washout, cutting off access entirely. Spring Hills Drive on CR-50/24 is also reporting high water with conditions still being monitored.
Route 19 and Interstate 79 are among the major corridors affected, making travel difficult across a wide stretch of the region.
Emergency crews are responding
Harrison-Taylor 911 began logging rescue calls as early as 3:49 p.m., with the volume of incidents rising steadily through the afternoon.
Water rescues in situations like these move quickly — conditions can change within minutes, and what looks passable can become life-threatening fast.
Emergency responders are urging drivers to turn around rather than attempt to cross any flooded road, no matter how shallow it appears.
What residents should do right now
If you are in the affected area, avoid all roads flagged for high water — even if the water looks manageable from a distance.
Check local emergency alerts and the West Virginia 511 system for the most current road closure updates before heading out.
Do not drive around barricades. Floodwaters can hide washed-out road surfaces, open drains, and debris that are invisible from the driver’s seat.
If you or someone you know is trapped, call 911 immediately and stay with your vehicle if it is safe to do so.
The situation across North Central West Virginia is still developing, and conditions could worsen before they improve.
Are you seeing flooding in your area right now? Share what you are experiencing in the comments — your update could help a neighbor make a safer decision today.