BUCHANAN COUNTY, VIRGINIA – Drone Footage shows the extensive damage to Pilgrim’s Grove, Virginia in the southwest portion of the state following extreme flooding there Tuesday, July 12th. Over 5″ of rain fell in just 6 hours, prompting a flash flood warning in the area. Our Jonathan Petramala was able to speak with a family who survived the flooding.
At one point there were over 40 people still unaccounted for, but as of Thursday morning (11 AM CT), search and rescue teams say they have accounted for all the missing individuals. Virginia State Police reported that they were able to locate 25 people overnight Wednesday into Thursday. At this time, there are no reported deaths.
Per #Buchanan Co Sheriff: 25 located overnight; this AM, Sheriff's Office, #VSP @VDEM & search/rescue working to locate & reunite remaining 17 local residents in the flooded communities of #Buchanan County. Still no reported deaths or injuries related to flooding.
— VA State Police (@VSPPIO) July 14, 2022
The torrential rainfall swept buildings off their foundations, leaving more than 100 buildings damaged or destroyed. This rural part of Virginia has a lot of mountains and valleys, allowing rainfall to be funneled through and accumulate quickly. The Virginia Department of Transportation is working to retore infrastructure in the area as many roads are damaged or mud-covered still.
Efforts continue to assess damages and begin cleanup efforts in Buchanan County. Route 638 and multiple connecting routes are heavily damaged. @VaDOTBristol is working with @VDEM, @VSPPIO and other agencies to assist with efforts. pic.twitter.com/Qxj1TpRcQH
— VDOT Bristol (@VaDOTBristol) July 13, 2022
Stay with WeatherNation as we continue to bring you the latest on the extreme flooding in Virginia.