VIRGINIA, USA — Governor Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency after severe storms and heavy rain caused damage and major flooding to parts of southwest Virginia.
Those same storms moved east into coastal Virginia and northeastern North Carolina Thursday afternoon, leaving thousands without power in the Hampton Roads region.
Several areas in southwest Virginia were hit hard by flooding and impacts as well as storm damage are expected statewide.
The state of emergency allows the Commonwealth to gather and use resources as well as position people and equipment to assist in recovery efforts.
Emergency officials have reported that more than 500 residents in and around Richland and Tazewell County have been displaced by flooding and needed rescue from the homes. A number of roads in southwest Virginia are closed or washed out.
“This weather is potentially dangerous, and rivers and streams can reach flood stage hours after the rain has passed,” said Governor Northam. “I urge all Virginians to monitor forecasts, and be prepared to obey local evacuation orders if needed. We are grateful to first responders who are working to rescue people from flooded homes and keep citizens safe.”