Fact Check: "Governor Morrisey declared a state of emergency in Ohio County on June 15, 2025, in response to the flooding."
What We Know
On June 15, 2025, Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency in Ohio County, West Virginia, due to severe flash flooding caused by heavy rains. Reports indicate that up to four inches of rain fell in a short period, leading to significant flooding and multiple fatalities in the area (source-1, source-2). The declaration was made in response to the immediate needs for rescue and recovery operations, which involved multiple state agencies including the Department of Natural Resources and the National Guard (source-3, source-4).
Analysis
The claim that Governor Morrisey declared a state of emergency in Ohio County on June 15, 2025, is accurate based on multiple reliable sources. The declaration was made following a devastating flash flood that resulted in fatalities and extensive damage to infrastructure in the region (source-5, source-6). The sources reporting this event include local news outlets and official statements from the governor's office, which are generally considered credible and reliable for such information.
However, the claim's context may lead to confusion regarding the timing and nature of the emergency. The declaration was indeed made on June 15, but it was in response to flooding that occurred the night before, on June 14, 2025. This detail is crucial as it clarifies that the emergency was not a result of a new event on June 15 but rather a continuation of the crisis that began the previous evening (source-2, source-8).
Conclusion
Verdict: False
While it is true that Governor Morrisey declared a state of emergency in Ohio County, the claim that he did so "on June 15, 2025" is misleading. The declaration was made in response to flooding that occurred the night before, on June 14, 2025. Therefore, while the emergency declaration itself is factual, the date and context presented in the claim are not accurate.
Sources
- Governor Patrick Morrisey Declares State of Emergency in Ohio County
- Ohio County communities hit with devastating flash flooding overnight ...
- Update: Morrisey Declares State Of Emergency In Ohio County After ...
- State of Emergency declared in Ohio County due to flash flooding
- WV Gov. Morrisey declares state of emergency for Ohio County after ...
- 3 dead in Ohio Co. flooding, state of emergency declared
- WATCH LIVE: West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey ...
- Flash floods kill 3 in West Virginia, several people missing after ...