CHARLESTON, WV – The National Weather Service in Charleston issued a flood watch Thursday for parts of West Virginia as heavy rains and thunderstorms continue to move through the state overnight and into Friday.

Gov. Jim Justice also declared a State of Emergency for all of West Virginia’s 55 counties due to impacts from the heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

“Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible,” the NWS advises. “An area of rain is expected to move across from the west, stalling through tonight. Embedded thunderstorms will produce locally heavy rainfall.”

The latest National Weather Service forecast predicts thunderstorms with heavy rains and strong winds across the majority of the state through late Thursday night/early Friday morning.

“Gusty winds of 30 to 40 mph can be expected through the day on Friday,” according to the NWS.

As the weather system makes its way through the state, creeks and streams have spilled over and roads are closed in numerous counties due to high water and mudslides.

As part of the State of Emergency, the governor directed the West Virginia Emergency Management Division to implement the West Virginia Emergency Operations Plan as it relates to flood response. EMD is in close contact with local offices of emergency management and state agency partners to assist and respond when help is needed.

The State of Emergency will remain in effect for 30 days, unless terminated by subsequent proclamation.