40 Missing, More Than 100 Homes Damaged In Southwest VA Flooding

BUCHANAN COUNTY, VA — Dozens of people are missing after devastating floodwaters swept through southwestern Virginia on Wednesday morning, according to Buchanan County officials.

More than 100 homes were damaged by floodwater after heavy rains tore through the area Tuesday night, officials said. More than 1,000 customers are still without power Wednesday, according to Appalachian Power, and boil water notices are in effect in numerous parts of the county.

The county received up to 6 inches of rain in some places, according to ABC 8. No deaths have been reported.

The devastating event came less than a year after the remnants of Hurricane Ida unleashed torrential rain on Buchanan County. One person was killed in the 2021 flooding and more than 20 homes were damaged.

The damage prompted Gov. Glenn Youngkin to declare a state of emergency Wednesday, which means the state will assist by providing supplies and support to local authorities and relief agencies.

"We are deeply saddened to learn that another flood has impacted a community still recovering from last year’s flood," Youngkin said in a statement. "In the wake of the devastation, I want Virginians in Buchanan County to know that we are making every resource available to help those impacted by this storm."

According to a release from the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office, the worst of the flooding was in the Dismal River Road area. Substantial damage was also reported in Patterson, Hale Creek, Pilgrim's Knob, Whitewood, Dismal River, and Jewell Valley, authorities said.

Multiple roads are also closed due to flooding and bridge damage, authorities said.

At a news conference Wednesday, Buchanan County authorities confirmed 40 people are missing as a result of the flooding.

Anyone with a missing loved one should go to a reunification center set up at Twin Valley Elementary and Middle school, located at 9017 Riverside Dr. in Oakwood. The school is also serving as an emergency shelter.

Authorities have also set up a missing person and welfare check hotline at 833-748-1424.

The Virginia Department of Emergency management, first responders and swift water rescue teams are in the area Wednesday attempting to locate those who are missing.