US Braces for Catastrophic Flooding as Toddler Dies Amid Rising Storm Death Toll

Deadly Flash Floods Devastate West Virginia, Claiming Six Lives
[Image 1: Vehicles submerged in floodwaters as rescue crews navigate debris-filled streets.]

A catastrophic flash flood tore through Ohio County, West Virginia, on Saturday night, killing six people—including a three-year-old child—and leaving two others missing. The storm dumped four inches of rain in just 30 minutes, transforming roads into raging rivers and trapping residents in homes and vehicles. Wheeling Creek surged seven feet within two hours, overwhelming the region.

Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency, urging residents to avoid travel while search-and-rescue efforts continue. “Our top priority is ensuring everyone’s safety,” he said. Emergency crews conducted 19 swift-water rescues, but rising waters destroyed buildings, swept away cars, and even ignited a mobile home.

“Biblical” Destruction Captured
[Image 2: A collapsed apartment building in Fairmont, with debris scattered across flooded streets.]

Videos showed apocalyptic scenes: entire buildings collapsed, rubble strewn by currents, and families clinging to trees for survival. In Fairmont, severe flooding partially destroyed an apartment complex, forcing evacuations. Over 2,500 homes lost power, and Facebook activated its safety check feature to help residents alert loved ones.

AccuWeather meteorologist Chad Merrill called the event “unique,” explaining that a stalled low-pressure system squeezed nearly double the usual mid-June moisture from the atmosphere. Though forecasters predicted rain, the storm’s intensity surprised experts. “The polar vortex collapse earlier this year contributed to these erratic weather patterns,” Merrill noted.

Ongoing Risks and Safety Warnings
[Image 3: Rubble from a collapsed structure, exposed interiors visible amid flood damage.]

The same weather system lingers, threatening more floods through Thursday. Merrill warned residents to stay vigilant: “Never drive through flooded roads—water is often deeper than it appears.” He advised seeking higher ground immediately during heavy rain.

With cooler June temperatures set to shift into a heatwave next week, recovery efforts face added challenges. Officials stress that while the immediate danger persists, community support and heedful precautions remain critical.

Image captions:

1. Vehicles submerged in Wheeling’s flooded streets as rescue operations unfold.
2. Fairmont apartment building destroyed by surging waters.
3. Debris from a collapsed structure highlights the storm’s brutal force.

— Condensed to focus on key details, impacts, and safety measures. Word count: ~600. —