Flash Flooding and Flooding in West Virginia, March 1 to 2, 2017

Name: Flash Flooding and Flooding in West Virginia, March 1 to 2, 2017
Start: 2017-03-01T06:05
End: 2017-03-02T12:00
Location: West Virginia

March 1 to 2, 2017 · NWS RLX · 62 events in 26 counties and zones

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it; 2 filed by county or forecast zone are drawn at its center, in a lighter ring. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 0
Property damage: $453,000
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 62

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS RLX wrote it up.

A strong cold front moved across the West Virginia during the afternoon and evening of March 1. Strong storms had developed near this cold front well to the west the day before, and raced through the middle Ohio River Valley through the morning on the 1st as a severe squall line producing widespread damaging wind gusts. Heavy rainfall from training storms also produced flash flooding across northwestern West Virginia, which combined with the wet ground led to river and stream flooding late on the 1st through much of the 2nd.

Tyler County was was one hot spot for flooding, where flash flood occurred on the morning of the 1st, followed by flooding on Middle Island Creek. The river gauge at Little on Middle Island Creek reached 20 feet, or major flood stage, late on the 1st. Flood stage is 14 feet. The creek remained above flood stage until late afternoon on the 2nd. Many roads as well as some private cabins flood at levels around 20 feet.

Overnight, from the 1st to the 2nd, non-thunderstorm, post cold front winds swept across north central West Virginia resulting in some isolated tree and power line damage.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Charleston, WV wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Mar 1, 5:25 AM EST, 40 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Mar 1, 5:25 AM EST, 40 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Charleston WV
525 AM EST Wed Mar 1 2017

.SYNOPSIS...
Strong cold front crosses today. Reinforcing clipper system
Thursday night into Friday. High pressure this weekend.

&&

.NEAR TERM /THROUGH TONIGHT/...
As of 455 AM Wednesday...

Very busy weather today compliments of a strong upper trough
and cold front slamming into very moist and unstable air over
our region. Ongoing band of strong to possibly severe
thunderstorms over southeast OH at 09Z, mostly just west of the
Ohio River, is only slowly edging eastward. Another band of
strong to possibly severe thunderstorms lie along a strong cold
front dropping southeast into central Ohio. Looks like this cold
front and line of storms will merge with the first band later
this morning around the Ohio River, and then drive across the
area for remainder of the day, reaching the mountains late this
afternoon. What this means for us is a risk of flash flooding
and severe thunderstorms. We continue a flash flood watch for
the entire area today, while SPC has a slight risk of severe
thunderstorms in the west and marginal risk in the east.
Damaging winds and large hail will be the main threat in the
west, and mainly strong to damaging winds are possible in the
east. Even though an ongoing strong southerly low level jet will
relax somewhat as the day progresses, the dynamics and
instability ahead of the system will maintain a severe and flood
threat. The good news is, the precip along with the
severe/water threat, will diminish behind the front, so that
most of the precip will be east of the I79 corridor by late this
afternoon.

By tonight, with the front and any severe threat exiting the
mountains, we turn our attention back to winter. Cold air moves
in tonight, with lingering northern mountain rain showers
changing to snow showers later tonight. Any accumulation tonight
will be very light and confined the higher elevations. West winds
will be quite gusty with the cold advection, and after today,
will feel even colder.

Temperatures will be well into the 60s to around 70 today ahead
of the showers and storms, with temperatures beginning to fall
this afternoon behind the front. Lows tonight will be well down
in the 30s.

&&

.SHORT TERM /THURSDAY THROUGH FRIDAY NIGHT/...
As of 220 AM Wednesday...

Post frontal environment brings sharply colder air into the
area and lingering snow showers over the northeast mountains. A
reinforcing clipper system will anchor more cold air, for a
short time anyways, and light snow across the northern half of
the CWA and emphasized over the northeast mountains again. There
are some challenges here in terms of timing of precipitation
type changes. Ahead of the secondary cold front, there will be
brief warm air advection, and need to keep the type as rain on
the front end heading into Thursday night. The cold front passes
and snow will follow as 850mb temps drop towards -10C and 925mb
temps drop back below zero. It is these 925mb temps that really
cement the rain on the front end in the warm air advection.
Heading into Friday, try very hard to avoid a snow to rain
scheme in a post frontal environment as model temperatures and
precipitation type like to present, and it rarely happens. But
given the time of year in late winter, this may be a legitimate
solution, and the low end POPs down towards the Kanawha Valley
will likely be rain with temps around 40 or so. Cannot justify
the rain/snow adjustment up that far. In the end, there does not
look to be too much of a change in overall amounts, and it is a
low end snow event.

&&

.LONG TERM /SATURDAY THROUGH TUESDAY/...
As of 220 AM Wednesday...

High pressure dominates the weekend, and holds on through early
next week while slowly pushing east. Temperatures begin
moderating again in the long term with warm air advection back
in force on Sunday and highs back in the 60s lowlands/50s
mountains. Next frontal system is slated for the Tuesday time
frame, but the forecast is dry through that time.

&&

.AVIATION /10Z WEDNESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY/...
06Z Wednesday thru 06Z Thursday...
As of 130 AM Wednesday...

A strong cold front will move southeastward across the area
today, preceded by showers and thunderstorms, and gusty south
winds. Some of the storms may contain damaging winds and large
hail. By around 01Z the front will be exiting the mountains,
ending the precip, except for some high elevation rain to snow showers
in the northern mountains. South winds today will be 15 to 20
KTS with gust 30 to 35 KTS.

Look for MVFR ceilings slowly eroding from south to north early
this morning, and should be mostly vfr ceilings around 4000 feet
outside of the widespread convection. Behind the front tonight,
some MVFR ceilings around 25000 feet will work back into the
northern and eastern portions of the WV, with some IFR in the
higher elevations of the northern mountains. West winds will
remain quite gusty, slowly diminishing overnight.

FORECAST CONFIDENCE AND ALTERNATE SCENARIOS THROUGH 12Z THURSDAY...

FORECAST CONFIDENCE: Lbw to Medium.

ALTERNATE SCENARIOS: Timing and location of erosion of early
morning stratus deck may very. Timing and strength of
showers/thunderstorms could also vary.

EXPERIMENTAL TABLE OF FLIGHT CATEGORY OBJECTIVELY SHOWS CONSISTENCY
OF WFO FORECAST TO AVAILABLE MODEL INFORMATION:
H = HIGH:   TAF CONSISTENT WITH ALL MODELS OR ALL BUT ONE MODEL.
M = MEDIUM: TAF HAS VARYING LEVEL OF CONSISTENCY WITH MODELS.
L = LOW:    TAF INCONSISTENT WITH ALL MODELS OR ALL BUT ONE MODEL.

DATE               WED 03/01/17
UTC 1HRLY       10   11   12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21
EST 1HRLY       05   06   07   08   09   10   11   12   13   14   15   16
CRW CONSISTENCY  M    H    H    H    H    H    M    M    M    M    L    L
HTS CONSISTENCY  M    M    M    H    M    M    M    L    M    M    L    L
BKW CONSISTENCY  M    M    M    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    L    L
EKN CONSISTENCY  M    M    M    M    H    H    H    H    M    M    L    L
PKB CONSISTENCY  H    H    H    H    H    H    L    H    M    M    L    L
CKB CONSISTENCY  H    H    M    M    H    H    H    H    M    H    L    L

AFTER 12Z THURSDAY...
No widespread IFR conditions are expected at this time.

&&

.RLX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
WV...Flash Flood Watch through this evening for WVZ005>011-013>020-
     027>032-039-040-519>522-525-526.
OH...Flash Flood Watch through this evening for OHZ066-067-075-076-
     083>087.
KY...Flash Flood Watch through this evening for KYZ101>103-105.
VA...None.

&&

SYNOPSIS...JMV/26
NEAR TERM...JMV
SHORT TERM...26
LONG TERM...26
AVIATION...JMV

Hazardous weather outlook, Mar 1, 5:41 AM EST, 24 minutes before

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Charleston WV
541 AM EST Wed Mar 1 2017

KYZ101>103-105-OHZ066-067-075-076-083>087-WVZ005>011-013>020-027>032-
039-040-519>522-525-526-021045-
Greenup-Carter-Boyd-Lawrence KY-Perry-Morgan-Athens-Washington-
Jackson OH-Vinton-Meigs-Gallia-Lawrence OH-Wayne-Cabell-Mason-
Jackson WV-Wood-Pleasants-Tyler-Lincoln-Putnam-Kanawha-Roane-Wirt-
Calhoun-Ritchie-Doddridge-Clay-Braxton-Gilmer-Lewis-Harrison-Taylor-
Upshur-Barbour-Northwest Nicholas-Southeast Nicholas-
Northwest Webster-Southeast Webster-Northwest Randolph-
Southeast Randolph-
541 AM EST Wed Mar 1 2017

...FLASH FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT THROUGH THIS EVENING...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for northeast Kentucky, southeast
Ohio, and portions of central West Virginia, northeast West
Virginia, northern West Virginia, southeast West Virginia, southern
West Virginia and western West Virginia.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight.

Please listen to NOAA Weather Radio or go to weather.gov on the
Internet for more information about the following hazards.

   Flash Flood Watch today.

There is also an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms today. The
main threats will be damaging winds and large hail.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Thursday through Tuesday.

No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

VAZ003-004-WVZ024>026-033-034-515>518-523-524-021045-
Dickenson-Buchanan-Mingo-Logan-Boone-McDowell-Wyoming-
Northwest Raleigh-Southeast Raleigh-Northwest Fayette-
Southeast Fayette-Northwest Pocahontas-Southeast Pocahontas-
541 AM EST Wed Mar 1 2017

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for southwest Virginia, and
portions of northeast West Virginia, southeast West Virginia and
southern West Virginia.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight.

There is an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms today. The main
threats will be damaging winds and large hail.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Thursday through Tuesday.

Hazardous weather is not expected at this time.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Mar 1, 3:32 AM EST, 2 hours 33 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
332 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

OHZ066-067-075-076-084-WVZ009-010915-
Washington-Athens-Morgan-Perry-Vinton-Wood-
332 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT SOUTHERN PERRY...WESTERN
WASHINGTON...MORGAN...ATHENS...VINTON AND NORTHWESTERN WOOD
COUNTIES...

At 332 AM EST, a strong thunderstorm was located near Mcarthur,
moving east at 55 mph.

Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph and nickel size hail are possible with
this storm.

Locations impacted include...
Athens, Belpre, Nelsonville, Glouster, McConnelsville, Mcarthur,
Beverly, Albany, Shawnee, Coolville, Chesterhill, Lake Hope State
Park, Washington, Lubeck, Chauncey, New Straitsville, Malta, Corning,
Buchtel and Stockport.

This includes Route 50 in West Virginia between mile markers 1 and 4.

LAT...LON 3975 8168 3923 8158 3920 8265 3921 8276
      3937 8274 3937 8252 3940 8251 3939 8229
      3947 8228 3947 8217 3955 8216 3956 8216
      3956 8226 3959 8226 3960 8237 3964 8238
      3964 8237 3977 8193
TIME...MOT...LOC 0832Z 259DEG 60KT 3927 8259

26

Special weather statement, Mar 1, 3:36 AM EST, 2 hours 29 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
336 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

OHZ066-067-076-010915-
Washington-Morgan-Perry-
336 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT PERRY...NORTHWESTERN WASHINGTON
AND MORGAN COUNTIES...

At 336 AM EST, a strong thunderstorm was located over Somerset,
moving east at 60 mph.

Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph and half inch hail are possible with this
storm.

Locations impacted include...
New Lexington, McConnelsville, Somerset, Beverly, Perry State Forest,
Crooksville, Junction City, Malta, Corning, Lowell, Stockport,
Bristol, Glenford, Rendville, Hackney, Eagleport and Devola.

LAT...LON 3991 8217 3982 8217 3982 8208 3977 8207
      3975 8164 3967 8164 3966 8159 3959 8159
      3958 8149 3948 8149 3966 8237 3974 8236
      3975 8239 3992 8233
TIME...MOT...LOC 0836Z 277DEG 51KT 3980 8228

26

Special weather statement, Mar 1, 4:23 AM EST, 1 hour 42 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
423 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

WVZ010-011-019-020-031-032-011000-
Doddridge-Harrison-Ritchie-Taylor-Pleasants-Tyler-
423 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

...A LINE OF STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT NORTHEASTERN
PLEASANTS...NORTHEASTERN RITCHIE...DODDRIDGE...TAYLOR...TYLER AND
HARRISON COUNTIES...

At 423 AM EST, radar indicated strong thunderstorms were located
along a line extending from 6 miles northwest of Sistersville to near
Pennsboro. Movement was east at 90 mph.

Wind gusts up to 50 mph and pea size hail are possible with these
storms.

Locations impacted include...
Clarksburg, Grafton, Harrisville, Middlebourne, Bridgeport, Paden
City, Shinnston, Stonewood, Nutter Fort, Salem, Sistersville,
Pennsboro, Lumberport, West Union, Anmoore, Enterprise, West Milford,
Ellenboro, Flemington and Pullman.

THIS INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING HIGHWAYS...
 Interstate 79 between mile markers 114 and 128.
 Route 50 in West Virginia between mile markers 37 and 82.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with these storms, and may
cause localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement
agency. They can relay your report to the National Weather Service
office in Charleston West Virginia.

LAT...LON 3958 8089 3960 8085 3947 8071 3947 8064
      3943 8058 3943 8053 3947 8048 3943 8028
      3939 8020 3941 8011 3939 8009 3945 7993
      3943 7989 3930 7989 3925 8002 3924 8017
      3921 8020 3912 8104 3948 8111 3961 8094
TIME...MOT...LOC 0923Z 258DEG 76KT 3962 8108 3922 8095

12

Special weather statement, Mar 1, 4:38 AM EST, 1 hour 27 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
438 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

KYZ101-011000-
Greenup-
438 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT NORTHWESTERN GREENUP COUNTY...

At 438 AM EST, a strong thunderstorm was located 11 miles northwest
of Letitia, or 12 miles west of Portsmouth, moving northeast at 65
mph.

Wind gusts up to 50 mph are possible with this storm.

Locations impacted include...
Letitia, South Shore, Sciotoville and South Portsmouth.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm, and may cause
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.

LAT...LON 3864 8306 3864 8305 3865 8305 3868 8303
      3870 8304 3872 8303 3873 8303 3872 8298
      3876 8289 3875 8288 3873 8287 3867 8288
      3861 8308
TIME...MOT...LOC 0938Z 237DEG 58KT 3872 8318

12

Special weather statement, Mar 1, 5:04 AM EST, 1 hour 1 minute before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
504 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

KYZ101-OHZ083>087-011030-
Greenup-Jackson-Meigs-Gallia-Lawrence-Vinton-
504 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT NORTHWESTERN GREENUP...
NORTHWESTERN MEIGS...NORTHERN GALLIA...SOUTHERN JACKSON...
SOUTHEASTERN VINTON AND NORTHWESTERN LAWRENCE COUNTIES...

At 503 AM EST, a strong thunderstorm was located 7 miles west of Oak
Hill, moving northeast at 65 mph. Other thunderstorms were following
behind.

Wind gusts up to 50 mph and half inch hail are possible with this
storm.

Locations impacted include...
Jackson, Point Pleasant, Oak Hill, Rio Grande, Letitia, Gallia, South
Shore, Vinton, Wilkesville, Adamsville, Mabee, Sciotoville,
Dyesville, Powellsville, Petersburg, Salem Center, Gage, Grays
Branch, Dexter and Centerpoint.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm, and may cause
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.

LAT...LON 3863 8307 3868 8303 3873 8303 3872 8298
      3876 8289 3874 8287 3869 8288 3866 8286
      3870 8270 3875 8270 3875 8266 3885 8265
      3886 8276 3894 8275 3895 8280 3898 8280
      3918 8225 3891 8213 3886 8214 3857 8309
TIME...MOT...LOC 1003Z 239DEG 57KT 3892 8270

12

Special weather statement, Mar 1, 5:30 AM EST, 35 minutes before

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
530 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

OHZ083-085>087-WVZ007-011100-
Jackson-Meigs-Gallia-Lawrence-Mason-
530 AM EST WED MAR 1 2017

...A LINE OF STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT CENTRAL MEIGS...
GALLIA...SOUTHEASTERN JACKSON...CENTRAL LAWRENCE AND NORTHERN MASON
COUNTIES...

At 530 AM EST, radar indicated strong thunderstorms were located
along a line extending from near Rio Grande to 11 miles southeast of
South Webster to near Lake Vesuvius. Movement was east at 60 mph.

Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph and nickel size hail are possible with
these storms.

Locations impacted include...
Point Pleasant, Gallipolis, Pomeroy, Oak Hill, Rio Grande, Racine,
Rutland, Lake Vesuvius, Forked Run State Park, New Haven, Mason,
Gallia, Vernon, Waterloo, Middleport, Chester, Syracuse, Hartford
City, Henderson and Vinton.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with these storms, and may
cause localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.

Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.

These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio
stations and available television stations for additional information
and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

LAT...LON 3870 8265 3899 8253 3914 8174 3910 8175
      3908 8177 3908 8181 3905 8181 3902 8177
      3894 8180 3895 8182 3893 8184 3889 8186
      3887 8189 3888 8191 3881 8186 3868 8212
      3860 8275 3862 8275
TIME...MOT...LOC 1030Z 258DEG 51KT 3891 8247 3870 8256 3865 8266

12

The radar

The Charleston,WV radar (KRLX), 82 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 11:03 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

54 thunderstorm wind, 3 flash flood, 2 flood, 2 strong wind, 1 hail. Local standard time, as filed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jackson

When: March 1, 6:05 AM EST
Where: Jackson County, 1.07 mi E of Runkle
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 39.050, -81.730

Large limbs were blown down across a road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jackson

When: March 1, 6:10 AM EST
Where: Jackson County, 1.38 mi S of New Era
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.880, -81.670

A small wood shed was destroyed.

Hail, Calhoun

When: March 1, 6:43 AM EST
Where: Calhoun County, 0.54 mi E of Grantsville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.920, -81.090

Thunderstorm Wind, Gilmer

When: March 1, 7:00 AM EST
Where: Gilmer County, 1.38 mi S of Coxs Mills
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 39.030, -80.830

Many trees were downed by the thunderstorm winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lewis

When: March 1, 7:10 AM EST
Where: Lewis County, 14.77 mi WSW of Peeltree
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 39.042, -80.471

A roof, which was under construction, was damaged at the Weston Ford dealer.

Thunderstorm Wind, Cabell

When: March 1, 9:12 AM EST
Where: Cabell County, 1.38 mi N of Cox Lndg
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.490, -82.300

A tree fell down near Ohio River Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mason

When: March 1, 9:23 AM EST
Where: Mason County, Flatrock
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.850, -82.020

Thunderstorm Wind, Mason

When: March 1, 9:25 AM EST
Where: Mason County, 1.62 mi E of Fivemile
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 38.750, -82.050

Multiple trees fell down on Lower Nine Mile Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Wayne

When: March 1, 9:30 AM EST
Where: Wayne County, East Lynn
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.170, -82.380

Thunderstorm Wind, Wayne

When: March 1, 9:35 AM EST
Where: Wayne County, Dunlow
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.020, -82.430

Multiple trees were blown down along Route 152.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When: March 1, 9:35 AM EST
Where: Putnam County, 3.45 mi S of Hurricane
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.380, -82.030

Multiple trees were blown over by winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When: March 1, 9:35 AM EST
Where: Putnam County, 1.38 mi N of Hurricane
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 38.450, -82.030

A highway sign along I-64 near the Hurricane exit was blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jackson

When: March 1, 9:40 AM EST
Where: Jackson County, 1.28 mi ESE of Cottageville
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.860, -81.800

Multiple trees were downed with some damage to a mobile home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When: March 1, 9:40 AM EST
Where: Putnam County, 0.79 mi NE of Eleanor
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 38.536, -81.918

A tree fell on a home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jackson

When: March 1, 9:44 AM EST
Where: Jackson County, 0.46 mi NW of Crow Summit
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 38.904, -81.687

Multiple trees were downed along Greenhills Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When: March 1, 9:44 AM EST
Where: Putnam County, 1.22 mi ENE of Scary
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.440, -81.831

Multiple trees were downed near the Nitro exit of I-64.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When: March 1, 9:45 AM EST
Where: Kanawha County, 1.41 mi E of Liberty
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.599, -81.704

Several trees blown down across Allens Fork Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When: March 1, 9:47 AM EST
Where: Kanawha County, 0.69 mi N of Fairview
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 38.440, -81.770

Trees and power lines knocked down by thunderstorm wind.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lincoln

When: March 1, 9:52 AM EST
Where: Lincoln County, 1.63 mi NW of Sod
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.244, -81.874

A flag pole rated to 70 mph was broken.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When: March 1, 9:53 AM EST
Where: Boone County, 0.57 mi NE of Morrisvale
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.136, -81.912

One tree was blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When: March 1, 9:55 AM EST
Where: Kanawha County, 1.31 mi NNW of Tornado
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.346, -81.862

A single tree was uprooted by winds.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When: March 1, 9:58 AM EST
Where: Kanawha County, (Crw) Yeager Arpt
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.370, -81.600

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When: March 1, 10:00 AM EST
Where: Boone County, Danville
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.080, -81.830

Multiple pine trees were blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When: March 1, 10:00 AM EST
Where: Boone County, 3.05 mi WNW of Ramage
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.000, -81.880

Several trees were downed and a structure was damaged near Six Mile Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When: March 1, 10:02 AM EST
Where: Kanawha County, 0.34 mi ENE of Spring Hill
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) measured gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 38.352, -81.724

Several trees were blown down, with a measured gust of 55 knots.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When: March 1, 10:05 AM EST
Where: Boone County, 0.78 mi SE of Madison
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.062, -81.820

Roofing was ripped from a garage. Also, several trees and power lines were blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mingo

When: March 1, 10:07 AM EST
Where: Mingo County, East Williamson
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 37.670, -82.270

The roof was blown off a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When: March 1, 10:07 AM EST
Where: Kanawha County, Marmet
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.250, -81.570

Multiple trees were downed, at least one fell across the road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When: March 1, 10:10 AM EST
Where: Boone County, 0.02 mi NNE of Gordon
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $30,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.980, -81.700

A mobile home was flipped off its foundation.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mingo

When: March 1, 10:11 AM EST
Where: Mingo County, 0.85 mi NNE of Red Jacket
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 37.661, -82.122

A mobile home was blown off its foundation.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mingo

When: March 1, 10:12 AM EST
Where: Mingo County, 0.51 mi NW of Goodman
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 37.705, -82.137

A mobile home was blown off its foundation.

Thunderstorm Wind, Ritchie

When: March 1, 10:13 AM EST
Where: Ritchie County, 2.14 mi SSE of Smithville
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 39.070, -81.090

Multiple trees were blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When: March 1, 10:20 AM EST
Where: Kanawha County, 0.58 mi WNW of Standard
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.134, -81.410

An equipment trailer was rolled onto its side at the Memorial Tunnel training site.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mingo

When: March 1, 10:20 AM EST
Where: Mingo County, Hinch
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 37.620, -82.020

Several trees were downed.

Flash Flood, Gilmer

When: March 1, 10:25 AM EST to 12:25 PM EST
Where: Gilmer County, 0.57 mi E of Revere to 1.86 mi NNW of Tanner
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $6,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.971, -80.990

Flash flooding along Tanner Creek caused water to enter several basements.

Thunderstorm Wind, Braxton

When: March 1, 10:30 AM EST
Where: Braxton County, Gassaway
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.670, -80.770

Several trees and power lines were blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Gilmer

When: March 1, 10:30 AM EST
Where: Gilmer County, 2 mi S of Glenville
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $40,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.901, -80.830

A metal radio tower was damaged by winds. The top of the tower folded over, but the tower remained standing.

Flash Flood, Tyler

When: March 1, 10:30 AM EST to 12:28 PM EST
Where: Tyler County, 0.44 mi NNE of Bens Run to 0.34 mi ENE of Sistersville
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 39.476, -81.097

Several roads were closed due to flooding along multiple creeks and streams that flow into Middle Island Creek.

Flash Flood, Mason

When: March 1, 10:30 AM EST to 11:34 AM EST
Where: Mason County, 1.54 mi S of Clifton to 0.62 mi NW of Fairview
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.978, -82.029

Carson Road and Foglesong Road were closed due to high water from creeks and streams in the area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Fayette

When: March 1, 10:32 AM EST
Where: Fayette County, 0.69 mi N of Greenstown
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $7,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.980, -81.150

Several trees, power poles and lines were brought down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Braxton

When: March 1, 10:35 AM EST
Where: Braxton County, 0.54 mi W of Sutton
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $6,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.670, -80.710

Several trees and power lines were downed. One house was damaged by a falling tree.

Thunderstorm Wind, Fayette

When: March 1, 10:35 AM EST
Where: Fayette County, Glen Jean
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $500
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.920, -81.150

A large tree fell down across Route 16.

Thunderstorm Wind, McDowell

When: March 1, 10:40 AM EST to 10:41 AM EST
Where: McDowell County, 0.6 mi NW of Bradshaw to 0.33 mi NNE of Bradshaw
Measured: 87 kt (100 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $60,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 37.357, -81.807

A National Weather Service storm survey team found considerable damage near Dan and Bradshaw in McDowell County. The damage was determined to be due to a microburst. Multiple businesses and power poles were damaged. Funneling through the terrain enhanced the winds, causing roof damage to numerous homes. A small travel trailer was flipped and suffered severe damage. The survey team estimated the path length of the microburst to be about half a mile, and the width to be about 500 yards.

Thunderstorm Wind, Webster

When: March 1, 10:44 AM EST
Where: Webster County, 0.54 mi W of Diana
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: COOP Observer
Coordinates: 38.570, -80.460

Several trees were reported down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Nicholas

When: March 1, 10:44 AM EST
Where: Nicholas County, Mt Nebo
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 38.200, -80.850

Several trees fell down and were blocking roads.

Thunderstorm Wind, Nicholas

When: March 1, 10:50 AM EST
Where: Nicholas County, Craigsville
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 38.330, -80.650

Several trees were brought down by wind blocking road.

Thunderstorm Wind, McDowell

When: March 1, 10:50 AM EST
Where: McDowell County, Welch
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.430, -81.580

Thunderstorm winds ripped shingles off the roof of a house.

Thunderstorm Wind, Webster

When: March 1, 10:53 AM EST
Where: Webster County, 0.54 mi E of Webster Spgs
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $40,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.480, -80.410

A four story commercial building suffered a partial roof loss. One car was heavily damaged by the falling brick and wood debris. Several homes experienced minor roof damage and shingle loss. Several trees and power lines were downed by wind, resulting in a peak of about 3000 power outages.

Thunderstorm Wind, Upshur

When: March 1, 10:54 AM EST
Where: Upshur County, 0.69 mi S of Buckhannon
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.990, -80.230

Several trees were brought down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Wyoming

When: March 1, 10:55 AM EST
Where: Wyoming County, 0.69 mi N of Alpoca
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.540, -81.380

Multiple trees and power lines were downed by wind.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When: March 1, 11:05 AM EST
Where: Raleigh County, Cool Ridge
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.650, -81.100

A few trees were blown down by the wind.

Thunderstorm Wind, Randolph

When: March 1, 11:05 AM EST
Where: Randolph County, 1.76 mi WNW of Huttonsville
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.730, -80.010

Several trees were downed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Randolph

When: March 1, 11:15 AM EST
Where: Randolph County, 0.54 mi E of Beverly
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $50,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.830, -79.870

A portion of the gymnasium roof was peeled off of Homestead Elementary School. School was in session at the time, but there were no injuries. 107 staff and students were evacuated following the damage. A mobile home was also blown off its foundation in the same area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Barbour

When: March 1, 11:20 AM EST
Where: Barbour County, 0.69 mi S of Belington
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 39.020, -79.930

Trees and power lines were blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Randolph

When: March 1, 11:20 AM EST
Where: Randolph County, 0.86 mi SSW of Elkins
Measured: 40 kt (46 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 38.909, -79.857

Trampoline and other outdoor items were blown around and damaged.

Thunderstorm Wind, Pocahontas

When: March 1, 11:20 AM EST
Where: Pocahontas County, 2 mi W of Hillsboro
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.130, -80.257

A barn was damaged by thunderstorm winds near Hillsboro.

Thunderstorm Wind, Pocahontas

When: March 1, 11:20 AM EST
Where: Pocahontas County, Edray
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 38.280, -80.100

A barn was damaged near Edray.

Thunderstorm Wind, Randolph

When: March 1, 11:24 AM EST
Where: Randolph County, (Ekn)randolph Fld El
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: ASOS
Coordinates: 38.880, -79.850

Flood, Jackson

When: March 1, 12:27 PM EST to 7:00 PM EST
Where: Jackson County, 1.22 mi SSW of Crow Summit to 1.56 mi S of Crow Summit
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 38.883, -81.685

Trace Fork Road was closed due to high water from Trace Fork and Sandy Creek. A gravel section of the road was washed out.

Flood, Tyler

When: March 1, 2:15 PM EST to March 2, 12:00 PM EST
Where: Tyler County, 1.03 mi SSE of Shiloh to 0.96 mi SE of Everett
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: River/Stream Gage
Coordinates: 39.436, -81.012

Multiple roads and some private cabins were flooded along Middle Island Creek due to flooding.

Strong Wind, Pleasants

When: March 2, 3:00 AM EST
Where: Pleasants forecast zone
Measured: 40 kt (46 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 39.371, -81.161 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Trees blown down onto a power line St. Marys.

Strong Wind, Tyler

When: March 2, 4:30 AM EST
Where: Tyler forecast zone
Measured: 40 kt (46 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: 911 Call Center
Coordinates: 39.465, -80.885 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Trees were downed in several locations along Route 2 west of Middlebourne.

What these are

Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
Hail: Hail three-quarters of an inch or larger, or smaller hail that caused damage, filed with the largest stone measured.
Flash Flood: Flooding that begins within six hours of the rain that causes it, or of a dam or levee failure or ice jam release, often with deadly speed.
Flood: Flooding that develops more slowly than a flash flood: rivers leaving their banks, or water standing over land for an extended time.
Strong Wind: Non-thunderstorm winds below high wind criteria that nonetheless caused damage or casualties.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in West Virginia in 2017 Every state in 2017 This day in weather history Warnings in West Virginia, March 2017

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 673127, 673129, 673134, 673137, 673241, 673156, 673165, 673163, 673167, 673169, 673171, 673172, 673175, 673185, 673178, 673182, 673184, 673181, 673186, 673188, 673703, 673195, 673189, 673202, 673194, 673199, 673191, 673197, 673200, 673204, 673201, 673206, 673214, 673218, 673884, 673220, 673699, 673718, 673885, 673226, and more.