Snow melt could cause flooding

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — As more than three feet of snow continues to melt across the Eastern Panhandle emergency responders are watching for the possibility of flooding.

Director of the Berkeley County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency management, Eddie Gochenour said the National Weather Service is warning of flooding in the Opequon Creek and other low lying areas.

Although it is not specifically named Gochenour said they expect to see some flooding in the Back Creek Valley area as well.

“We know when the Opequon has issues, typically so does Back Creek,” Gochenour told WEPM News.

Gochenour said that the slow melt has helped reduce the risk of severe flooding.

“It will cool down at night and slow things down a bit,” Gochenour said.

Still, he warned that some roads could become water covered, and stressed the importance of using caution behind the wheel.

“Do not cross standing water,” He said. “if there’s water across the road, turn around and go another way.”

Overall Gochenour said he is not too concerned and did not plan to set up the Emergency Command Center (EOC) as of Tuesday afternoon.

The best chance for that flooding is Wednesday through Friday.