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BUCKHANNON -- Officials announced Monday afternoon that Substantial Damage Determinations will begin this week in Upshur County for homes and businesses affected by the severe flooding of July 21.
"Local officials previously conducted Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) to estimate the overall extent and impact of storm‑related damages," a joint release from the City of Buckhannon and Upshur County stated.
"PDAs are separate from the Substantial Damage Determination process. Substantial Damage Determinations will be carried out by the Upshur County Commission and the City of Buckhannon, in accordance with their respective Floodplain Ordinances and as part of their local floodplain management responsibilities.
"These determinations help identify structures that may require specific permitting, mitigation measures, or compliance steps during long‑term recovery," the release continued. "Additional information will be shared as the process continues."
Also on Monday, Upshur and Lewis county officials urged residents to report debris blockages in local streams following last week's flash flooding that impacted communities across north‑central West Virginia.
The West Virginia Conservation Agency has deployed technicians statewide to assess flood‑related debris and damages, and to assist affected citizens. A WVCA release stated, "West Virginia residents impacted by Tuesday’s flash flooding may contact their local conservation district to report debris blockages in streams."
Both Upshur and Lewis counties fall within the Tygarts Valley Conservation District and West Fork Conservation District, respectively.
Residents should report debris blockages directly to their district office:
Upshur County -- Tygarts Valley Conservation District. Phone: 304-457‑3026. Barbour, Randolph, Taylor, Tucker and Upshur counties are in the Tygarts Valley Conservation District.
Lewis County -- West Fork Conservation District. Phone: 304-627‑2160. Doddridge, Gilmer, Harrison and Lewis counties are within the West Fork Conservation District.
WVCA technicians will continue evaluating debris blockages and coordinating with local officials to determine where assistance is needed most, officials said.
"Stream debris can worsen flooding, damage infrastructure, and create hazardous conditions for residents," the release stated. "Prompt reporting helps conservation districts: Identify and assess blockages; Prioritize areas needing immediate attention; Coordinate resources for debris removal; and Support long‑term watershed protection.
The WVCA's mission is "to provide for and promote the protection and conservation of West Virginia’s soil, land, water and related resources for the health, safety and general welfare of the state’s citizens."
Upshur and Lewis County emergency management officials emphasized that early reporting is essential as assessments continue.
Residents who observe debris blockages in streams, creeks or drainage channels should contact their conservation district as soon as possible and be prepared to provide: Location of the blockage; Description of debris; Photos, if safely obtainable; and Contact information for follow‑up.