MCDOWELL COUNTY, W. Va. -West Virginia Delegate David Green says McDowell County says the flood waters reached record levels, some places seeing three feet above the previous record. This resulted in widespread damage, with seventy-five percent without power or water following the flood.
Despite efforts to help residents, results have been slow, made more difficult by the geography and poverty of the county.
“Well, it’s as effective as a rural county can be. I mean, we have challenges. We’re not a small county and we’re also made even more difficult because of the ruggedness of our terrain…” says Del. Green.
Now, the power has been restored, but they are still working to get the water running again. However, they have made an impact, going from around 2,200 homes without public water to now 747.
Del. Green says he’s grateful for all the volunteers or donations they’ve received, including those coming from out of state, but the county is still a long way from okay.
“Everybody is suffering. It’s not back to normal by any means. You know, the cold weather that… just came in, people were cold even though the power is back on, heat pumps are down, different items are damaged…” says Del. Green, “…There… have been some people who have lost their homes… We’re honestly still trying to get to all the different places..”
The highest needed items as of Feb. 23rd are bleach, dehumidifiers, big push brooms, electric and propane heaters, and propane. They also need cleaning supplies, gloves, tarps, rags, brooms, shovels, buckets, big squeegees on broom handles, and laundry supplies.
Del. Green also encourages more people to volunteer their time to help clean up the flood damage, especially in the homes of elderly residents and to take FEMA surveys to the places where cell service doesn’t reach.
He says you can make donations at the old armory in Welch or by calling the call center set up there at 888-929-4966 whether you are in need or would like to help.
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