West Virginia American Water Response to Flood-Related Operational Impacts Continues

West Virginia American Water made additional progress overnight on restoration to the water distribution system in the Elkview and Clendenin areas, which suffered significant flood damage. Water service has been restored to normal levels in the Elkview area, and additional pressure was gained in the main lines along Wills Creek and Frame Road once system demand decreased after dark.

Overnight, crews repaired the water main in two washed-out locations along Rt. 4 and are working to repair two more today. Crews area also working to locate and repair a suspected break in the Blue Creek area.

Continued water usage for clean-up efforts in areas where water has been restored is likely to slow restoration efforts to the Clendenin area today. Although main lines are pressurized, adequate pressure does not exist to begin filling tanks in the area to serve customers in higher elevations.

West Virginia American Water has provided guidance to local fire departments on hydrants that can be used for filling fire trucks without hindering water system restoration efforts. The company reminds area residents that the only personnel authorized to operate fire hydrants are water company workers and fire departments when responding to emergencies.

In Fayette County, crews are planning repairs to a washed out creek crossing in Winona that is impacting water service to approximately 20 customers. A temporary line will be installed today or tomorrow as soon as creek levels allow.

“West Virginia American Water employees across the state have pitched in to provide a full-force emergency response to the damage our water systems sustained from widespread flooding throughout our service areas and particularly in Kanawha County,” said Jeffrey McIntyre, President of West Virginia American Water. “I am extremely proud of the progress they have accomplished in such a short time under these conditions, and we will continue to work until service is restored to every customer.”

Potable water tankers are available at the following locations for customers to fill containers:

• Herbert Hoover High School in Elkview
• Clendenin Park & Ride at Clendenin exit off I-79
• Dollar General on Maywood Avenue in Clendenin
• Smith’s Foodfair in Clendenin
• Corner of Lizmore Road and River Haven Road off of the Queen Shoals Bridge
• Keeneys Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Winona

Updates on water tanker locations will be posted on the company’s website and Facebook page.

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