On Thursday June 23rd, storms rolled over West Virginia and created flash flooding in 44 out of the 55 counties. Many counties, such as Clay, Kanawha, Nicholas, Greenbrier and Fayette were affected. Bickmore, Lizemore, Bomont areas, Big Otter, Widen and Clay in Clay County were all affected as well as other locations not mentioned. The news stated that this was a 1 in 1,000 chance of a flood this bad.
Our neighboring town of Clendenin was completely destroyed. The iconic Dairy Queen is no longer standing. It was torn down after the waters receded. People are still stranded in parts of Clay County and throughout the state. Homes, vehicles, personal belongings and most unfortunate, lives were lost during this flood. Most of the lives lost were in Greenbrier County.
Donations of cleaning supplies, water, personal hygiene items and non-perishable food items are at very high demand right now in Clay County. If you would like to donate, you may drop off donations to Lizemores or Big Otter Fire Departments, Clay Health Department or Clay County High School. Many churches in the area are also collecting donations for those affected by the flood. Volunteer Firemen, EMS and all volunteers have been working day and night and around the clock to help anyone affected.
We certainly want to send our condolences to the families who lost loved ones. For everyone else affected by the flood, our deepest sympathies are with you and we pray that you will bounce back stronger than ever! West Virginia is certainly full of compassionate, thoughtful, generous people and those who have lost everything seem to be in great spirits everywhere! Prayers and best thoughts with everyone in Clay County, and the entire state of West Virginia!
