Severe Weather Alert From Mayor Skinner

July 26, 2022, BUCKHANNON, WV: Please be alert tomorrow (Wednesday, July 27).  Widespread heavy rainfall is forecast throughout much of West Virginia.  As a result, a FLASH FLOOD WATCH has been issued for Upshur County.  In response, our City Street and Sanitation crews are prepared to combat potential street flooding in those flood-probed neighborhoods.

We’re all aware of the roadways/portions of our community that typically experience flooding.  Please, if the water rises, just avoid traveling in those areas.  Not only do you risk your life and damaging your own property, but driving through high water also creates waves, which can cause damage to neighboring homes, businesses, and properties.

If you have furniture/important belongings that sit low/near where water can enter your home or business, please consider moving those items to higher ground this afternoon/evening.

***A Flash Flood WATCH indicates conditions are favorable for heavy rain to cause fast-rising water in small streams to spill over creek banks creating potential damage to nearby roadways, homes, and businesses.  A Flash Flood WARNING means swift-water flooding is currently taking place.  Right now, we’re just in a WATCH situation. It’s important to understand the difference.

As always, if you have an emergency, please call 9-1-1 for help.  Let’s hope we don’t experience any flooding tomorrow, but if we do, it’s critically important that we’re prepared as a community.