Heads up, West Virginia! As February rolls in, we’re facing a messy combination of steady rain, rising temperatures, and melting snow, creating the perfect setup for potential flooding. A Flood Watch is in place, and you’ll want to stay prepared and cautious throughout the day.
What’s Happening Now:
- Charleston: Rainy and cool, currently 46°F (8°C).
- Morgantown: Light rain falling, with temps around 42°F (6°C).
- Huntington: Steady rain with a current temperature of 46°F (8°C).
Today’s Forecast:
- Charleston: Rain will stick around most of the day, with highs reaching 48°F (9°C). Tonight, temperatures will dip to 29°F (-2°C), bringing a possible freeze.
- Morgantown: Expect rain throughout the day, with a high of 40°F (5°C) and a low of 28°F (-2°C) overnight.
- Huntington: More rain is on the way, with highs near 47°F (9°C) before cooling to 30°F (-1°C) tonight.
What’s Causing the Flood Watch?
- Heavy Rain: We’re looking at 1 to 2.5 inches of rain today, with some areas seeing even more.
- Snowmelt: The warming temperatures are melting leftover snow, adding extra runoff to rivers and streams.
- Flooding Risk: Rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas are the most vulnerable, and road flooding is a possibility, especially in flood-prone areas.
Counties Under the Flood Watch:
This includes areas like Kanawha, Cabell, Monongalia, and others. The watch will remain in effect through this evening, but flooding could linger longer in certain spots.
Safety Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Don’t drive through flooded roads: Even a small amount of water can sweep your car away. If you see water, turn around—don’t take the risk.
- Stay alert: Keep an eye on local news, weather updates, and emergency alerts in case conditions change.
- Be ready to act: If you live in a flood-prone area, have a plan in case you need to leave quickly.
Looking Ahead:
The good news? The rain will taper off by tonight, and drier, warmer conditions are expected as we move further into February. But for now, stay cautious and don’t let your guard down just yet.
Stay safe, West Virginia—keep an eye on the skies, and stay smart on the roads! 🌧️
