McDowell County, WV (WOAY) – Flood recovery efforts remain in full swing in McDowell County as local and state officials work to secure much-needed resources and support. While the Trump administration has not yet issued a federal disaster declaration, county officials say the request is making progress and they hope to receive an update soon.
“We are hopeful that in the very near future, hopefully in the next day or so, we’re going to hear something,” said Michael Brooks, McDowell County Commission President. “I assure you that our state, local, and federal partners are doing all they can.”
FEMA is currently utilizing storm surveys filled out by McDowell County residents to assess the extent of the damage. Early on, many roads were completely flooded, making it difficult for emergency management teams to inspect affected areas. Now, those survey numbers are helping officials push the disaster declaration forward.
As the county transitions from rescue efforts to cleanup, officials are asking for donations of essential supplies. Secretary of State Kris Warner was in McDowell County today with State Treasurer Larry Pack and emphasized the need for materials to help disinfect and stabilize homes.
“Things that they need are 50-pound bags of lime, lots of it, dehumidifiers, more bleach,” Warner said. “We’re trying to get as many supplies in as quickly as possible.”
Dump sites are also being set up to assist residents in disposing of flood debris. Locations include:
- Route 103 between Gary and Wilco, near the old U.S. Steel barnyard
- Red Ash Temple area near Panther
- Old fire department lot in Berwyn
- Intersection of Route 52 and Route 16
- Premier Mountain property owned by Commissioner Dobson
“Our first one will be on Route 103 between Gary and Wilco, right above the dollar store,” Warner said. “This is a place where people in that area can bring their debris. We have several more sites across the county.”
Efforts to repair water infrastructure have been progressing steadily, with crews from across the state assisting in the recovery process.
“We’ve got crews from the northern part of the state in here. We’ve got other resources coming in, and the Public Service Commission is doing the best they can,” McDowell County Commissioner Dewayne Dotson said. “We’re working as fast as possible to restore services, and full restoration should happen sooner rather than later.”
One of the biggest remaining challenges is the repair of private bridges, which are not covered by state or county funds. Over 30 bridges sustained damage from the floods and many residents remain stranded or cut off from main roadways. Efforts from the county have been made and have established footbridges for residents, but property complications remain.
“If you’ve got a private bridge that’s washed out, unfortunately, the county or state can’t fix it,” said Brooks. “We are actively looking for donors who can help with building materials to get these bridges back up.”
Those willing to donate bridge-building materials can call the flood hotline at 888-929-4966 to contribute.
In addition to local recovery efforts, state officials are making repeated trips to McDowell County to assess the damage and offer assistance. Secretary of State Kris Warner and Treasurer Larry Pack visited the area for the second time in a week, pledging their support and encouraging further aid.
“We’re here to do whatever we can to help,” said West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack. “This community has been through so much, and we’re going to make sure they get the resources they need.”
As the county waits for a response from the federal government, residents and officials continue to take matters into their own hands and push forward in rebuilding their communities.
For anyone who is interested in helping or donating, cleaning supplies, building materials, and financial contributions are still greatly needed. For more information, you can reach out to the McDowell County flood hotline at 888-929-4966.
