National Guard deployed as West Virginia flash floods hit homes

Torrential rains caused flash floods in West Virginia that inundated homes and businesses, washed out bridges and led to numerous water rescues. The state’s governor said that some residents were unaccounted for as search operations continued Wednesday.

Gov Patrick Morrisey sent hundreds of National Guard members to the hardest-hit areas in the northern part of the state and declared a state of emergency for all 55 counties. The State Division of Natural Resources has been involved in 85 rescues, he said, and 19 Guard and state police helicopters were either out on rescue missions or standing by if needed.

Three shelters were opened that housed a total of more than 100 residents, the governor said at a news conference. Asked if anyone was unaccounted for, Morrisey replied: “We don’t have an exact number but we are concerned about fatalities,” adding that “as soon as we have more information,” officials will provide details.