CHARLESTON, W.Va. — With the potential for severe storms this afternoon and evening, Governor Justice has declared a State of Preparedness for all 55 counties in West Virginia.
With this declaration, the State Emergency Operations Center increased today at 12 p.m. from "Steady State" to "Enhanced Watch," according to a release from the governor's office.
The National Weather Service forecast predicts heavy precipitation, damaging winds, hail, and a chance of isolated tornadoes for parts of the state, which could threaten the health and safety of many West Virginians. Justice urges citizens to take this potentially hazardous weather seriously and plan accordingly.
A tornado watch has been issued until 6 p.m. for the following section of West Virginia.
The State of Preparedness allows the West Virginia Emergency Management Division to posture personnel and resources for quick response to any emergency that may develop. Coordinating agencies have been placed on standby to report to the State Emergency Operations Center should the need arise.
Leading up to and through the duration of this weather event, the National Weather Service is providing updates for state agencies and local partners. Division liaisons will report conditions from each county while working closely with local emergency management agencies.
Justice and the division ask all West Virginians to remain attentive to weather conditions through local media reports and follow any instructions from emergency officials.
For the latest updates on severe weather, citizens are encouraged to monitor local forecasts, follow instructions from emergency management officials, and have a way to receive weather alerts, especially after dark.
For updates, follow WVEMD on social media: www.facebook.com/WVEMD/ and www.twitter.com/wvemd.
