West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has formally requested an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration from President Donald Trump following a series of severe storms that began on July 21. The state is seeking federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for seven counties, along with statewide Hazard Mitigation funding. Catastrophic flash floods caused by up to seven inches of rain led to two confirmed fatalities in Upshur County. Authorities deployed 500 West Virginia National Guard members and multiple helicopters, conducting more than 100 water rescues. The storms also closed sections of Interstate 79 and U.S. Route 48 and damaged roads through sinkholes.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.