PARKERSBURG, WV — Rain continues to drench the Mid-Ohio Valley, prompting local officials in Washington and Wood counties to keep a close eye on rising water levels and potential flooding risks across the region.
Though no major flooding incidents have been reported, emergency crews have responded to scattered debris, fallen limbs, and minor roadway flooding as heavy rains persist through the week.
“It’s just the normal low-lying roads that always flood—nothing major yet,” said Capt. Eric Hunter of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
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Creeks Rising, Rivers Next
Col. Brian Rhodes of the Marietta Police Department noted that while things remained stable early Thursday, overnight rains began to swell creeks and streams in areas known for flooding.
According to meteorologist Joe Curtis of the National Weather Service in Charleston, the region has received between 2 to 2.5 inches of rain over the past few days and could see another 1 to 3 inches, particularly if thunderstorms develop.
“Those can drop quite a bit of rain in a very fast period of time,” said Curtis.
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A short break in the weather is expected Saturday, but rain is forecasted to return Saturday evening into Sunday, further raising the risk for creek and river flooding.
River Levels Expected to Rise
With more rainfall expected, area rivers—including the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers—are predicted to rise.
- Muskingum River at Beverly is approaching flood stage of 29 feet and could crest at 31.6 feet by Sunday evening.
- Ohio River is projected to rise, with crests expected Tuesday morning, though remaining below flood stages of 36 feet in Parkersburg and 35 feet in Marietta.
Beverly Mayor Jim Ullman said the village was doing well so far, with no flooding issues related to the Ohio River as of Friday.
“As long as we don’t get much rain today, we’ll be OK,” Ullman said.
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Local Roads Feeling the Impact
Wood County emergency officials reported minor power outages, fallen trees, and high water on secondary roads like Core Road, Nicholette Road, and Stillwell Road. Road crews have placed warning signs in affected areas.
“I saw those with my own eyes,” said Assistant 911 Director Dale McEwuen. “I think it is going to get worse Saturday just because the rain is going to continue.”
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The timing of school closures in Wood County has eased concerns around bus transportation during the flooding risk.
Officials Urge Caution
While the situation is currently under control, local emergency management continues to monitor rising water levels and weather forecasts closely.
Residents are urged to stay alert and avoid traveling on flood-prone roads, especially if more rain arrives over the weekend.
As water levels continue to rise in creeks and streams, officials say the real concern lies in what comes next: that runoff flowing into the Ohio River, which could cause higher river levels by early next week.
The National Weather Service and local authorities will provide updates as conditions evolve.
