More than 3,000 customers of Appalachian Power remain without service following torrential downpours and flash flooding that took place late yesterday evening.
Erikka Storch, external affairs manager for Appalachian Power, explained that crews have reported to the affected areas but that a substation has been destroyed in the Triadelphia/Valley Grove area.
“We haven’t been able to get to some of the areas yet, so a full assessment could take place on the infrastructure that needs attention,” she explained. “Those efforts will continue all day until we can assess and get people back online as quickly as possible.
“We are working with Mountaineer Gas, too, because we are being as careful as possible for our restoration efforts,” Storch continued. The damage is largely centered on the Valley Grove and Triadelphia areas. But the flooding affected people in the Woodsdale and Futon areas, too.”
Storch reported The Highlands development in Ohio County does have power, and management of Quaker Steak & Lube has created a collection area for local residents who wish to donate supplies to flooding victims and first responders.
“This is about helping each other at this point, and that’s what the people in our area do best, Storch said. “We always step up as a valley when others in the area need our help, and that’s the situation we’re all in at this time.
“Our Appalachian Power crews will continue working all day and night,” she added. “When there are updates to our restoration efforts, they will be listed on our website maps.”
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Important Information from the Wheeling-Ohio County Emergency Management Agency, Ohio County 911 Center and the City of Wheeling.
WHEELING, W.Va. – This morning, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for Ohio County. The Ohio County Commission and the City of Wheeling have also declared a local state of emergency. Three fatalities have been confirmed from Saturday evening’s flash flooding, and emergency personnel are working on several missing persons reports.
Emergency services are requesting that people avoid these areas so search and rescue efforts can continue, and clean-up efforts are not impacted:
Major Road Closures:
-US 40/ National Road (Triadelphia to Valley Grove) (Ohio County)
-WV 88/Bethany Pike (At Hamilton Ave) (City of Wheeling)
-GC&P Road (Wheeling & Ohio County)
-Middle Creek Road (Ohio County)
-Warden Run Road (City of Wheeling)
-Shilling Bridge (City of Wheeling)
-Junior Ave Bridge (City of Wheeling)
-Lumbar Ave (City of Wheeling)
-Monument Place Bridge (City of Wheeling)
-US 40 / National Road (Monument Place Bridge to Junior Ave Bridge) (City of Wheeling)
-Dixon Run Road (Ohio County)
-Short Creek Road (Ohio County)
-McGraw’s Run Road-Atkinson Crossing (Ohio County)
-Battle Run Road (Ohio County)
-Point Run Road (Ohio County)
City of Wheeling Flood Debris:
-Residents impacted by flooding can put debris in front of their homes for sanitation pickup.
Important Numbers / Report Missing People:
-If the public has questions about flooding, please call the Emergency Management Agency at 304-234-3756.
Emergency Shelter Location:
-Elm Grove Elementary School – 85 Mil Acres Drive, Wheeling, WV 26003
Tetanus Shots:
-The Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department is offering free tetanus shots. Shots will be administered starting at 8:30 a.m., Monday. Locations are at the Health Department – 1500 Chapline Street and at Riesbeck’s Parking Lot in Elm Grove. No appointment is needed. Proof of West Virginia ID is needed. The health department can be reached at 304-234-3682.
Flood Clean Up Supplies:
-Flood Kits are on their way and distribution locations will be announced ASAP.
