Substantial Damage Determinations Beginning This Week

BUCKHANNON, WV: Substantial Damage Determinations in the Special Flood Hazard Area will begin this week in Upshur County for homes and businesses affected by the July 21–22, 2026 flooding event.

Local officials previously conducted Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) to estimate the overall extent and impact of storm‑related damages. PDAs are separate from the Substantial Damage Determination process.

Substantial Damage Determinations will be carried out by the Upshur County Commission and the City of Buckhannon, in accordance with their respective Floodplain Ordinances and as part of their local floodplain management responsibilities. These determinations help identify structures that may require specific permitting, mitigation measures, or compliance steps during long‑term recovery.

Additional information will be shared as the process continues.

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Coordinated Release Issued By: City of Buckhannon • Upshur County Commission • Upshur County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management