BLACK SWAN - CC25NEWS2F

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Washington County Grapples with Severe Ohio River Flooding, Launches Urgent Relief for Victims

Marietta, OH – June 8, 2025 – Washington County is reeling from catastrophic flooding along the Ohio River, where a violent summer storm late Friday night exacerbated a week of heavy rainfall, submerging entire communities, destroying homes, and displacing hundreds. The county has launched an urgent response to aid victims, opening shelters and mobilizing resources to address what officials are calling the worst flooding in decades.

The Washington County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) activated its emergency operations center Saturday morning, coordinating with state and federal partners to manage the crisis. “The Ohio River has overflowed at unprecedented levels, particularly in Marietta and Belpre, where whole neighborhoods are underwater,” said EMA Director Lisa Parker. “We’re seeing homes completely washed away, and our focus is on saving lives and providing immediate relief.”

The flooding in Washington County has been more severe than in neighboring areas, with the Ohio River reaching a record crest of 42 feet—well above major flood stage—submerging downtown Marietta and low-lying areas in Belpre. Over 500 homes have been reported destroyed or severely damaged, and more than 25,000 residents are without power. Communication networks are nearly nonexistent, with cell towers down and internet services offline across much of the county.

Three emergency shelters have been established to house displaced residents. The largest, at Marietta High School, is currently sheltering over 300 families, many of whom were rescued from rooftops in Marietta’s historic district. A second shelter at Belpre High School is housing 200 more individuals, while a third at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Reno is accommodating 150 people, including a space for farm animals, supported by the local 4-H club. The American Red Cross is managing the shelters, providing hot meals, blankets, and medical supplies. “We’ve got people who’ve lost everything—homes, possessions, even family photos,” said Red Cross volunteer Karen Ellis. “We’re trying to give them some stability in this chaos.”

Marietta High School shelters over 300 families displaced by catastrophic Ohio River flooding on June 8, 2025

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Marietta Fire Department have conducted over 80 water rescues since Friday night, using boats and helicopters to reach stranded residents. “We’ve seen entire streets turned into rivers,” said Sheriff Larry Mincks. “Some people were clinging to trees or trapped in attics as the water rose.” The lack of power and communication has made rescues even more perilous, with downed power lines sparking in floodwaters and debris blocking access to rural areas.

To address the communication blackout, the county has set up a temporary emergency broadcast system using HAM radios and is distributing battery-powered radios at shelters. The National Guard was deployed Saturday afternoon, bringing in high-water vehicles to deliver food, water, and medical supplies to isolated communities. They’re also assisting with sandbagging efforts in areas where floodwaters continue to rise. “We’re doing everything we can to get resources to those in need,” said Guard Major Emily Thompson.

Local organizations are stepping up to support the relief effort. The Marietta Community Foundation has launched a fund to help families rebuild, while the Washington County Health Department is providing free tetanus shots and water testing kits at shelters to combat health risks from contaminated floodwaters. Volunteers from the Marietta First Church of the Nazarene are offering laundry services and hot showers at their facility, using generators to power operations.

National Guard conducts rooftop rescues in Belpre as Ohio River flooding devastates Washington County on June 8, 2025

Governor Mike DeWine visited Washington County on Saturday evening, calling the situation “heartbreaking” and pledging full state support. “Washington County is facing an unparalleled disaster,” he said, confirming that FEMA would deploy teams by Monday with emergency funding, temporary housing, and debris removal assistance. With more rain forecast, officials are bracing for further impacts. “We’re in a race against time,” Parker said. “The river levels aren’t receding yet, and we need to prepare for more challenges.”

A county hotline, staffed by volunteers using satellite phones, is available for residents to report damage or request aid. The Red Cross is distributing flood cleanup kits, including bleach and protective gear, to help families begin the daunting recovery process. As Washington County battles the worst flooding in living memory, the community’s response is a testament to its resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.

This is a developing story.

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