West Virginia Division of Natural Resources

Flash floods in West Virginia caused by torrential rains inundated homes and businesses, leading to water rescues and bridge damage. Gov. Patrick Morrisey deployed hundreds of National Guard members to affected areas and declared a state of emergency. Over 85 rescues were conducted, and three shelters housed more than 100 residents, though some areas remained inaccessible due to floodwaters.

Bats provide critical ecosystem services but face existential threats from climate change and white-nose syndrome. The Virginia big-eared bat, an endangered species, is particularly vulnerable as habitat conditions degrade. Researchers like Alex Silvis document declining populations through cave surveys, noting that over 99% of some bat species have died from white-nose syndrome.