Mason County under emergency order after landslide

Emergency order issued

Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for Mason County on Sept. 17 after flooding caused severe erosion along the Ohio River. The damage occurred near the Kanawha Street levee discharge culvert, where at least 900 cubic yards of soil moved from the riverbank.

The landslide reached within two feet of a railroad track, prompting the closure of a rail line. Morrisey’s proclamation said continued erosion could force the main line to close and could obstruct water leaving the levee discharge system, potentially worsening the damage.

Morrisey issued the order under West Virginia Code 15-5-6(b). It permits local, state and federal personnel to coordinate equipment, staff and other resources for the response.

Storm damage across Mason County

The erosion followed a Sept. 10 storm that dropped between 4 and 7 inches of rain over several hours, based on National Weather Service data. Floodwater also damaged homes and other infrastructure across the county.

Transportation and public safety warnings indicated that about 15 streets became impassable and public schools dismissed students early. The emergency proclamation called for immediate work to stabilize the riverbank and prevent further erosion.

Earlier emergencies near Charleston

Mason County is about a 43-minute drive from Charleston. The latest declaration follows separate flood emergencies affecting the state capital and other parts of West Virginia.

Morrisey declared a statewide emergency on July 21. Charleston Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin then declared a city emergency on Aug. 17, citing flood damage that would require months of assessment, cleanup and repairs expected to cost millions of dollars.