CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Flash flooding in Ross County on Saturday night prompted water rescues, reports of mobile homes being swept from their sites, and the launch of boats by the Chillicothe VA fire department, according to officials.
U.S. 23 was reported closed as crews responded to a water rescue on Woods Hollow. Officials also indicated a mobile home had washed away along the highway and that George Hollow was underwater. Dispatchers described occupied trailers being carried by floodwater and discussed the mass-rescue incident. The VA department has launched boats to assist with water rescues.
Officials had not publicly confirmed casualty figures or how many people remained unaccounted for Saturday evening, but said “at least 3-to-5” mobile homes are impacted.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington issued and extended flash flood warnings for portions of Ross County after law enforcement reported flooding and radar showed 1 to 3 inches of rain on already saturated ground. Additional rainfall was possible through the night.
Ross County officials requested help from the county emergency management agency and asked the state to send available resources. Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads.
Details remained developing. Authorities had not released an official count of people missing or homes lost.
