West Virginia, 2023

Flash Flood and Damaging Winds in West Virginia, July 27 to 29, 2023

July 27 to 29, 2023 · NWS RLX · 47 events in 18 counties and zones

The final few days of July featured very hot and muggy weather across West Virginia. During peak heating hours, the atmosphere became conducive for afternoon showers and thunderstorms.

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. 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
$68,000
Crop damage
None recorded
Events
47

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.

The final few days of July featured very hot and muggy weather across West Virginia. During peak heating hours, the atmosphere became conducive for afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Mainly isolated storm reports occurred on July 27th and 29th, while widespread damage took place on the 28th.

On that particular day, hot temperatures and ample low level moisture yielded a convective line of activity across Ohio and Kentucky that eventually crossed into West Virginia. Strong winds accompanying the line resulted in a swath of downed trees and power lines starting in Wood County shortly before 3 PM and then spreading eastward through the bulk of central and southeastern West Virginia.

At the Charleston Yeager International Airport, a 62 mile per hour wind gust was measured. Around that time, multiple areas of downed trees and power lines were observed in and around downtown Charleston. Storms eventually crossed out of the forecast area by the early evening.

While damaging wind gusts were the main issues during this stretch of unsettled weather, there was one instance of flash flooding on July 27th from activity passing over the western portions of Kanawha County. This led to high water reports in a few spots in and around Cross Lanes.

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 Jul 27, 1:46 PM EST, 3 hours 24 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Jul 27, 1:46 PM EST, 3 hours 24 minutes before
AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
National Weather Service Charleston WV
246 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

.SYNOPSIS...
Mid-upper level ridging building toward the area through Friday
increases the heat and humidity. A front arrives this weekend
with additional showers and storms. High pressure early next week.

&&

.NEAR TERM /THROUGH FRIDAY/...
As of 244 PM Thursday...

Key Points:

    * Heat Advisory remains in effect until 7 PM this evening.
    * Marginal Risk for severe thunderstorms exists through tonight.
    * Heat Advisory in effect Friday from 11 AM to 9 PM.

A marginal risk for severe thunderstorms continues through this
evening. Hi-res models suggest a thunderstorm complex developing
across our northern sections this afternoon, then sink south this
evening affecting the Middle Ohio Valley, northeast KY and portions
of western WV through this evening.

Some models suggest another disturbance passing overnight. This
feature could maintain at least weak convection across the area
overnight tonight. Therefore, decided to keep slight chance PoPs
during this time period. Relatively dry condition expected during
the first half Friday, but yet another upper level shortwave is
advertise moving across our north during the afternoon hours.
Therefore, increased PoPs with this feature late Friday.

Gusty southwest flow diminishes this evening, becoming light and
variable to calm later tonight. River valley fog will be possible
over areas that receive rainfall and where skies clear tonight.

Despite of possible cooling showers, very muggy conditions expected
tonight with temperatures ranging from the lower 70s lowlands, into
the lower 60s highest elevations. Hot temperatures are anticipated
on Friday ranging from the upper 90s lowlands, into the upper 70s
highest elevations. With dewpoints expected to be in the lower 70s,
Heat Index values will likely reach 100 to 105 degrees across the
lowlands, with localized higher values. Therefore, a Heat Advisory
remains in effect from 11 AM to 9 PM Friday evening.

&&

.SHORT TERM /FRIDAY NIGHT THROUGH SATURDAY NIGHT/...
As of 200 PM Thursday...

Chances of showers and thunderstorms will increase as a cold
front approaches, and then moves through the region Saturday
night or early Sunday. Models showing CAPE values of 2000-2500
Saturday afternoon with DCAPE of 700-1200. Definitely some
concern for damaging winds, and possibly large hail. In
addition, precipitable water values are in the 1.75 to 2.25
range. This could lead to some heavy rainfall in thunderstorms.
Flash flood guidance is rather high at the moment, with three
hour guidance generally in the 2.25 to 3.5 inch range.

Depending on timing of convection and cloud cover on Saturday,
may still need some additional heat advisory headlines. Will
wait until models are in better agreement before hoisting any
headlines.

&&

.LONG TERM /SUNDAY THROUGH THURSDAY/...
As of 1210 PM Thursday...

Models are showing a short wave moving through on Sunday, but
disagree with the timing and how much moisture will be available
behind the cold front. This leads to a range of solutions from
dry, to some showers and thunderstorms, more likely in the
south and east. Will keep chance POPs since some models show
this, but confidence is not high.

A surface high pressure system will then build over the area on
Monday and remain through mid week. The flow aloft will remain
out of the northwest. This will allow for mostly dry weather
with warm afternoons and cool nights.

Another cold front may approach from the northwest on Thursday,
but models are not in agreement with this. Will allow for a
chance of showers and thunderstorms as some models indicate.

&&

.AVIATION /19Z THURSDAY THROUGH TUESDAY/...
As of 134 PM Thursday...

The Sun's heat, ample low level moisture and a passing upper level
disturbance will contribute for the development of showers and
thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. Expect localized heavy
downpours and strong gusty winds with and nearby storms. Some storms
could become severe this afternoon and evening. Coded TSRA in TEMPO
groups at HTS, CRW and PKB as a line of convection is expected to
drop south into this evening. Coded VCTS for the rest of terminals
per uncertainty whether storms hit directly or not.

Convection should diminish in intensity and coverage later this
evening and tonight as we loose diurnal heating. However, some
models bring another upper level disturbance into the Tri-state area
(OH,KY,WV) late overnight tonight into Friday morning. These
features could maintain chances for precipitation overnight tonight.
Otherwise, IFR/LIFR conditions under dense fog could develop under
light to calm flow and over areas that clears overnight into Friday
morning.

Light southwest surface flow will gust to 15 to 20 kts this
afternoon, before becoming light south this evening, and then
light and variable to calm tonight. Stronger wind gusts can be
expected nearby thunderstorms. Moderate west to southwest flow
aloft become light west to southwest this evening.

FORECAST CONFIDENCE AND ALTERNATE SCENARIOS THROUGH 18Z FRIDAY...

FORECAST CONFIDENCE: High.

ALTERNATE SCENARIOS: TAFs may need amended for direct
thunderstorm hits this afternoon and evening. Fog formation
overnight tonight may vary, with rain increasing the chance.

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.

UTC 1HRLY       19   20   21   22   23   00   01   02   03   04   05   06
EDT 1HRLY       15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   00   01   02
CRW CONSISTENCY  H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H
HTS CONSISTENCY  H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H
BKW CONSISTENCY  H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H
EKN CONSISTENCY  H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    M
PKB CONSISTENCY  H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    M
CKB CONSISTENCY  H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    H    M

AFTER 18Z FRIDAY...
Localized brief IFR conditions possible in showers and thunderstorms
Saturday afternoon and night.

&&

.RLX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
WV...Heat Advisory until 7 PM EDT this evening for WVZ005>007-013-
     014.
     Heat Advisory from 11 AM to 9 PM EDT Friday for WVZ005>011-
     013>020-024>034-039-040.
OH...Heat Advisory until 7 PM EDT this evening for OHZ083>087.
     Heat Advisory from 11 AM to 9 PM EDT Friday for OHZ066-067-075-
     076-083>087.
KY...Heat Advisory until 7 PM EDT this evening for KYZ101>103-105.
     Heat Advisory from 11 AM to 9 PM EDT Friday for KYZ101>103-105.
VA...Heat Advisory from 11 AM to 9 PM EDT Friday for VAZ003-004.

&&

SYNOPSIS...RPY/ARJ
NEAR TERM...ARJ
SHORT TERM...RPY
LONG TERM...RPY
AVIATION...ARJ
Hazardous weather outlook, Jul 27, 2:48 AM EST, 14 hours 22 minutes before
Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Charleston WV
348 AM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

WVZ515>526-280800-
Northwest Raleigh-Southeast Raleigh-Northwest Fayette-
Southeast Fayette-Northwest Nicholas-Southeast Nicholas-
Northwest Webster-Southeast Webster-Northwest Pocahontas-
Southeast Pocahontas-Northwest Randolph-Southeast Randolph-
348 AM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight.

Showers and storms this afternoon and evening will contain heavy
downpours. Localized water issues could occur if repetitive storms
occur over the same location.

In addition, there is a marginal risk for severe storms today, with
damaging winds the primary risk.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Friday through Wednesday.

Periods of showers and storms with heavy downpours this weekend
could lead to localized water issues. In addition, there is a
marginal risk for severe storms on Saturday, with damaging winds the
primary hazard.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Weather spotters are encouraged to report significant weather
 conditions according to Standard Operating Procedures.

OHZ066-067-075-076-VAZ003-004-WVZ008>011-015>020-024>034-039-040-
280800-
Perry-Morgan-Athens-Washington-Dickenson-Buchanan-Jackson WV-Wood-
Pleasants-Tyler-Kanawha-Roane-Wirt-Calhoun-Ritchie-Doddridge-Mingo-
Logan-Boone-Clay-Braxton-Gilmer-Lewis-Harrison-Taylor-McDowell-
Wyoming-Upshur-Barbour-
348 AM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

...HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM TO 9 PM EDT FRIDAY...

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

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight.

Showers and storms this afternoon and evening will contain heavy
downpours. Localized water issues could occur if repetitive storms
occur over the same location.

In addition, there is a marginal risk for severe storms today, with
damaging winds the primary risk.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Friday through Wednesday.

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

   Heat Advisory.

Periods of showers and storms with heavy downpours this weekend
could lead to localized water issues. In addition, there is a
marginal risk for severe storms on Saturday, with damaging winds the
primary hazard.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Weather spotters are encouraged to report significant weather
 conditions according to Standard Operating Procedures.

KYZ101>103-105-OHZ083>087-WVZ005>007-013-014-280800-
Greenup-Carter-Boyd-Lawrence KY-Jackson OH-Vinton-Meigs-Gallia-
Lawrence OH-Wayne-Cabell-Mason-Lincoln-Putnam-
348 AM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

...HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 7 PM EDT THIS
EVENING...
...HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM TO 9 PM EDT FRIDAY...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for northeast Kentucky, portions
of southeast Ohio, and portions of southern 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.

   Heat Advisory.

Showers and storms this afternoon and evening will contain heavy
downpours. Localized water issues could occur if repetitive storms
occur over the same location.

In addition, there is a marginal risk for severe storms today, with
damaging winds the primary risk.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Friday through Wednesday.

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

   Heat Advisory.

Periods of showers and storms with heavy downpours this weekend
could lead to localized water issues. In addition, there is a
marginal risk for severe storms on Saturday, with damaging winds the
primary hazard.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Weather spotters are encouraged to report significant weather
 conditions according to Standard Operating Procedures.

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Jul 27, 4:20 PM EST, 50 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
520 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

WVZ039-040-525-272145-
Barbour WV-Northwest Randolph WV-Upshur WV-
520 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of northwestern
Randolph, east central Upshur and south central Barbour Counties
through 545 PM EDT...

At 520 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 9
miles northwest of Dailey, or 10 miles west of Elkins, moving east at
35 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 30 mph and pea size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Elkins, Dailey, Beverly, Junior, Womelsdorf (Coalton), and Ellamore.

This includes Route 33 between mile markers 31 and 35.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

This storm 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 3880 7986 3872 7993 3884 8017 3900 8009
      3900 7980
TIME...MOT...LOC 2120Z 283DEG 29KT 3888 8004

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.25 IN
MAX WIND GUST...30 MPH

LTC
Special weather statement, Jul 27, 4:28 PM EST, 42 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
528 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

OHZ085-WVZ007-008-272145-
Meigs OH-Jackson WV-Mason WV-
528 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern Meigs,
northern Mason and west central Jackson Counties through 545 PM
EDT...

At 528 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near
Point Pleasant, moving east at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 30 mph and pea size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Point Pleasant, Henderson, Leon, Cheshire, Mount Alto, and Letart.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

This storm 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 3886 8214 3888 8215 3890 8214 3893 8211
      3895 8211 3895 8181 3871 8191 3883 8215
TIME...MOT...LOC 2128Z 286DEG 16KT 3887 8207

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.25 IN
MAX WIND GUST...30 MPH

LTC
Special weather statement, Jul 27, 4:38 PM EST, 32 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
538 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

WVZ018-029-272200-
Calhoun WV-Gilmer WV-
538 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of east central Calhoun
and southwestern Gilmer Counties through 600 PM EDT...

At 538 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near
Arnoldsburg, or near Grantsville, moving east at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 30 mph and half inch hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Grantsville, Arnoldsburg, Shock, Millstone, Orma, Nicut, Stumptown,
Mount Zion, and Normantown.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

This storm 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 3873 8095 3871 8099 3869 8101 3879 8118
      3892 8114 3892 8091
TIME...MOT...LOC 2138Z 288DEG 17KT 3882 8108

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN
MAX WIND GUST...30 MPH

LTC
Special weather statement, Jul 27, 4:45 PM EST, 25 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Charleston WV
545 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

OHZ083-085>087-WVZ007-008-272200-
Jackson OH-Meigs OH-Gallia OH-Lawrence OH-Jackson WV-Mason WV-
545 PM EDT Thu Jul 27 2023

...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of southeastern Meigs,
Gallia, southern Jackson, north central Lawrence, northern Mason and
west central Jackson Counties through 600 PM EDT...

At 544 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along
a line extending from near Point Pleasant to near Gallipolis to near
Oak Hill. Movement was southeast at 15 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 30 mph and penny size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
         unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is
         possible.

Locations impacted include...
Point Pleasant, Gallipolis, Oak Hill, Rio Grande, Gallia, Henderson,
Cheshire, Adamsville, Mount Alto, Mabee, Lakin, Cottageville,
Gallopolis Ferry, Gage, Centerpoint, and Letart.

This includes Interstate 77 in West Virginia near mile marker 145.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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

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 3893 8275 3898 8214 3892 8170 3873 8204
      3874 8264 3876 8266 3885 8265 3886 8276
TIME...MOT...LOC 2144Z 307DEG 14KT 3891 8216 3888 8225 3889 8265

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN
MAX WIND GUST...30 MPH

LTC
Special weather statement, Jul 27, 5:02 PM EST, 8 minutes before
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The radar

The Charleston,WV radar (KRLX), 64 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 22:08 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

46 thunderstorm wind, 1 flash flood. Local standard time, as filed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Mason

When
July 27, 5:10 PM EST
Where
Mason County, 1.48 mi SSW of Gallipolis Ferry
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$1,000
Reported by
Trained Spotter
Coordinates
38.750, -82.190

Several trees were blown down along Huntington Road in Gallipolis Ferry.

Flash Flood, Kanawha

When
July 27, 10:50 PM EST to July 28, 1:15 AM EST
Where
Kanawha County, 0.12 mi ESE of Nitro to 1.23 mi NE of Sattes
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$250
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.419, -81.828

High water was observed in several spots in Cross Lanes, including along portions of Route 62 and Big Tyler Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lincoln

When
July 28, 1:42 PM EST
Where
Lincoln County, 1.38 mi S of Ranger
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
38.100, -82.180

Trees and power lines were blown down onto East Lynn Road near the Ranger community.

Thunderstorm Wind, Wood

When
July 28, 1:50 PM EST
Where
Wood County, 0.87 mi SW of Parkersburg
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$1,000
Reported by
Trained Spotter
Coordinates
39.260, -81.560

A few trees were blown down near Robert Byrd Highway in Parkersburg.

Thunderstorm Wind, Wood

When
July 28, 1:55 PM EST
Where
Wood County, 1.75 mi ESE of Parkersburg
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$3,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.260, -81.520

Multiple trees and power lines were blown down from Williamstown down to Parkersburg.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lincoln

When
July 28, 2:00 PM EST
Where
Lincoln County, West Hamlin
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
38.280, -82.200

In West Hamlin, trees and power lines were blown down near McClellan Highway.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When
July 28, 2:01 PM EST
Where
Putnam County, 2.82 mi N of Byrnside
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.340, -81.980

Power lines were blown down into trees near Turkey Creek Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Pleasants

When
July 28, 2:05 PM EST
Where
Pleasants County, 0.87 mi NW of Horseneck
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.330, -81.290

Numerous trees were downed in the Belmont area, including onto Horseneck Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When
July 28, 2:09 PM EST
Where
Putnam County, 0.88 mi SE of Midway
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.560, -81.960

A large tree fell down and blocked both lanes of traffic at the intersection of Charleston Road and Midway Hollow Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When
July 28, 2:10 PM EST to 2:30 PM EST
Where
Boone County, 1.29 mi ENE of Danville to 0.54 mi NE of Lanta
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$5,000
Reported by
Public
Coordinates
38.090, -81.810

Trees and power lines were blown down across multiple areas of Boone County, including Bancroft, Rock Creek, Van, Madison, and Dry Branch.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When
July 28, 2:13 PM EST to 2:16 PM EST
Where
Putnam County, 0.88 mi NW of Scott Depot to 0.54 mi E of Scott Depot
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.460, -81.930

One tree was blown down near the Liberty Square shopping center in Teays Valley. A mile down the road, another single tree fell down near Scott Teays Elementary School.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When
July 28, 2:15 PM EST
Where
Putnam County, 2.76 mi S of Eleanor
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
Public
Coordinates
38.490, -81.930

Several trees fell down along the northbound lanes of Route 34 between Teays Valley and Winfield.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When
July 28, 2:20 PM EST
Where
Putnam County, 1.28 mi WNW of Mt Vernon
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$200
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.460, -81.970

One tree was blown down onto Southridge Way.

Thunderstorm Wind, Pleasants

When
July 28, 2:20 PM EST
Where
Pleasants County, 0.53 mi W of Wiley
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.330, -81.140

A large and healthy tree was blown down across the front porch of a home in the Wiley township.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When
July 28, 2:20 PM EST
Where
Kanawha County, 0.88 mi SE of Nitro to 1.08 mi E of Sattes
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$3,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.410, -81.820

Several areas of downed trees were observed in Saint Albans and Nitro.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When
July 28, 2:24 PM EST
Where
Boone County, 1.29 mi ESE of Quinland
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$5,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
38.010, -81.760

Part of a roof and its adjacent walls were blown off of a trailer in Madison.

Thunderstorm Wind, Ritchie

When
July 28, 2:25 PM EST
Where
Ritchie County, 0.69 mi S of Ellenboro
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$3,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.260, -81.050

Several trees were knocked down in the area. The most concentrated area occurred between Harrisville and the Pleasant County line.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When
July 28, 2:25 PM EST
Where
Kanawha County, 1.29 mi WNW of Elk to 0.88 mi NE of Ruth
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.360, -81.690

Several trees were blown at Phillips Street and Valley Drive in Charleston. Another area of trees blew down in the Trace Fork Shopping Center in Southridge.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When
July 28, 2:27 PM EST
Where
Boone County, 0.88 mi NE of South Madison
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$200
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.060, -81.810

Power lines were blown down at Workman Branch Road outside of Madison.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When
July 28, 2:27 PM EST
Where
Putnam County, 0.54 mi E of Hurricane to 1.76 mi WNW of Mt Vernon
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.430, -82.020

In Hurricane, a tree was blown down at the intersection of Route 34 and Rhoda Street. A few miles away, another single tree fell down onto Hereford Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Boone

When
July 28, 2:30 PM EST
Where
Boone County, 0.54 mi E of Danville
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$1,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.080, -81.820

Numerous trees were blown down near Price Branch Road near the town of Danville. Several of these trees were blocking both lanes of traffic.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When
July 28, 2:30 PM EST
Where
Kanawha County, 0.88 mi SE of Elk to 0.54 mi W of Charleston
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$3,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.340, -81.660

Several spots in the South Hills area and downtown Charleston observed downed trees and power lines.

Thunderstorm Wind, Putnam

When
July 28, 2:32 PM EST
Where
Putnam County, 2.76 mi N of Hurricane
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$200
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.470, -82.030

One tree was blown down near Hurricane Creek Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When
July 28, 2:32 PM EST to 2:38 PM EST
Where
Kanawha County, 0.54 mi E of Kanawha
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$3,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.320, -81.570

Multiple trees were downed in the Kanawha City area towards the town of Pinch.

Thunderstorm Wind, Gilmer

When
July 28, 2:35 PM EST
Where
Gilmer County, 1.48 mi SSE of Coxs Mills
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$200
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.030, -80.820

A tree was blown down at the 7600 block of Alice Road near the town of Cox Mills.

Thunderstorm Wind, Kanawha

When
July 28, 2:41 PM EST
Where
Kanawha County, 1.08 mi E of Etowah
Measured
54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by
ASOS
Coordinates
38.380, -81.580

A 62 mile per hour gust was measured at the Charleston Yeager airport.

Thunderstorm Wind, Doddridge

When
July 28, 2:45 PM EST
Where
Doddridge County, 0.69 mi N of West Union
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
Public
Coordinates
39.310, -80.780

Multiple trees were blown down around West Union.

Thunderstorm Wind, Gilmer

When
July 28, 2:50 PM EST
Where
Gilmer County, 0.69 mi N of Ellis
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$200
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.940, -80.720

A tree fell down onto a local road outside of Sand Fork.

Thunderstorm Wind, Gilmer

When
July 28, 2:54 PM EST
Where
Gilmer County, 0.69 mi S of Dusk
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$5,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.860, -80.750

Multiple trees and power lines were blown down in the area of Toler Run Road and Dusk Camp Run Road in Sand Fork. Lightning also struck a power pole and damaged a transformer.

Thunderstorm Wind, Clay

When
July 28, 3:00 PM EST
Where
Clay County, 0.69 mi S of Dundon
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$5,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.460, -81.070

Numerous areas of downed trees were observed around the county.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When
July 28, 3:04 PM EST to 3:07 PM EST
Where
Raleigh County, 0.55 mi W of Beckley
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.780, -81.190

Trees and power lines were knocked down at the 3100 block of Robert C Byrd Drive near Piney Avenue. In downtown Beckley, a power line fell onto the local roadway.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When
July 28, 3:05 PM EST
Where
Raleigh County, Mac Arthur
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.750, -81.220

A large tree fell onto power lines near Crab Orchard and caused them to catch on fire.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When
July 28, 3:08 PM EST to 3:10 PM EST
Where
Raleigh County, 0.69 mi N of Hotcoal
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
Public
Coordinates
37.710, -81.250

In the Sophia township, a tree fell onto a power line and fell into an alley. Power was out to nearby residents. Another power pole was blown over at the 100 block of Walker Street.

Thunderstorm Wind, McDowell

When
July 28, 3:09 PM EST
Where
McDowell County, 0.55 mi E of Big Four
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.420, -81.520

A tree fell and blocked one lane in the 26400 block of Coal Heritage Road near Kimball.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When
July 28, 3:10 PM EST
Where
Raleigh County, 0.88 mi SW of Jenny Gap
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$1,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.710, -81.340

Power poles and adjoining lines were blown down at the 100 block of Dewey Road in the town of Slab Fork.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lewis

When
July 28, 3:12 PM EST
Where
Lewis County, 2.14 mi SSW of Homeland
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$200
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.090, -80.410

A tree was blown down onto the northbound lane of Highway 19 at the intersection of Apple Hill Lane.

Thunderstorm Wind, McDowell

When
July 28, 3:15 PM EST to 3:18 PM EST
Where
McDowell County, 0.55 mi W of Algoma to Gilliam
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.420, -81.440

One tree was blown down near the Northfork Fire Department onto Steam Engine Drive. Down the road a bit in the town, another tree was downed at the curve around the 800 block of Cherokee Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When
July 28, 3:15 PM EST
Where
Raleigh County, 0.69 mi N of Lillybrook
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$1,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.660, -81.220

A large and healthy tree fell onto power lines then onto Epperly Road. Many local residents were without power for a period of time.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When
July 28, 3:16 PM EST
Where
Raleigh County, Ury to 0.69 mi S of Beaver
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.650, -81.320

In Ury, a tree was blown down onto a local road. A few miles away in Daniels, another tree fell onto power lines around the 200 block of Lilly Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, McDowell

When
July 28, 3:20 PM EST
Where
McDowell County, 0.55 mi W of O Toole
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.320, -81.440

Two trees brought down power lines onto Otoole Road in the Lila township.

Thunderstorm Wind, Upshur

When
July 28, 3:20 PM EST
Where
Upshur County, 1.48 mi SSE of French Creek
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$200
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.860, -80.290

A large tree, approximately 18 inches in diameter, fell onto Bush Run Road in French Creek.

Thunderstorm Wind, Harrison

When
July 28, 3:20 PM EST
Where
Harrison County, 0.53 mi W of Despard
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$3,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.280, -80.330

Multiple areas in Clarksburg observed downed trees, including Davisson Run Road, Tiffany Terrace, Arthur Avenue, and Crooked Run Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Webster

When
July 28, 3:40 PM EST to 3:44 PM EST
Where
Webster County, 3 mi NW of Webster Spgs to 2.27 mi WNW of Kovan
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.510, -80.460

Outside of Webster Springs, a tree was blown down across Leatherwood Run Road, which blocked access up the valley for a period of time. In Kovan, a large oak tree fell and blocked portions of School House Hollow Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Raleigh

When
July 28, 3:40 PM EST
Where
Raleigh County, 0.88 mi SW of Jenny Gap
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$750
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.710, -81.340

A power pole that connected to a home in Jenny Gap was blown down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Webster

When
July 28, 3:50 PM EST
Where
Webster County, 1.48 mi NNE of Bernardstown
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$250
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
38.520, -80.340

A large and healthy tree was downed at the intersection of Point Mountain Road and State Route 15 east of Webster Springs.

Thunderstorm Wind, Barbour

When
July 28, 3:52 PM EST
Where
Barbour County, 0.69 mi N of Phillipi Arpt
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$500
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
39.180, -80.070

A tree and adjacent power lines were blown down across Hackers Creek Road near Philippi.

Thunderstorm Wind, McDowell

When
July 29, 2:55 PM EST
Where
McDowell County, 0.69 mi S of War
Measured
45 kt (52 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$250
Reported by
911 Call Center
Coordinates
37.290, -81.680

One tree was blown down outside the town of War. Both lanes of Rocket Boys Drive were blocked due to the downed tree.

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.
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.

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

The same day elsewhere

More

Every storm in West Virginia in 2023Every state in 2023This day in weather historyWarnings in West Virginia, July 2023

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 2026-10-01. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 1114402, 1117689, 1114487, 1114404, 1114501, 1114496, 1114513, 1114506, 1114413, 1115080, 1114425, 1115077, 1114421, 1115042, 1116878, 1115035, 1115039, 1116884, 1114457, 1114547, 1114467, 1116896, 1114554, 1116899, 1115038, 1116901, 1115051, 1114558, 1114559, 1115037, 1115128, 1115129, 1116869, 1115022, 1116871, 1115041, 1115021, 1115133, 1116872, 1115020, and more.