Severe Weather Causes Widespread Power Outages in West Virginia

West Virginia has been grappling with significant power outages as a result of the remnants of Tropical Storm Helene, which has swept through the region, leaving over 77,000 Appalachian Power customers in the dark. As of 2:30 PM on September 27, 2024, the impact of this storm has been felt most acutely in southern West Virginia.

Mercer County has been hit hardest, with more than 23,000 residents experiencing power loss. Other affected areas include Boone County, where approximately 1,200 customers are without service, and Cabell County, which reports around 8,900 outages. Fayette County has seen 2,500 outages, while Kanawha County has recorded 4,300. Lincoln County has approximately 1,100 customers affected, and Mason County reports 1,500 outages. Mingo County is also facing challenges with 3,400 outages, and Wayne County is dealing with around 7,000 customers without power.

The widespread outages are a result of heavy rainfall and strong winds associated with the storm, which has caused downed power lines and other infrastructure challenges. Local authorities and Appalachian Power crews are working diligently to restore service as quickly as possible, but the scale of the outages has complicated recovery efforts.

In addition to the power outages, residents are urged to stay informed about local conditions and to exercise caution when traveling. The heavy rains have increased the risk of flooding in certain areas, further complicating the situation. Emergency services are on alert, and residents are advised to prepare for potential delays in power restoration and to have emergency supplies on hand.

As the storm continues to move through the region, updates will be provided regarding the status of power restoration efforts and any additional safety measures that may be necessary. Residents are encouraged to report outages to their local utility provider and to stay tuned for further announcements from local news sources and emergency management officials.

With the remnants of Helene still affecting the area, it is crucial for West Virginians to remain vigilant and prepared for changing weather conditions and the ongoing challenges posed by this severe weather event.