National Guard moves into recovery phase of disaster response

PRESS RELEASE

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia National Guard (WVNG) rapidly deployed a large-scale support team into the hardest-hit regions of the state following recent severe weather, as directed by Governor Patrick Morrisey. After activation on July 21, 2026, the primary focus of this initial surge was to conduct critical search and rescue operations to safeguard citizens and clear blockages to reopen main transportation routes. 

With search and rescue operations now successfully concluded and major roadways passable, the mission has shifted from crisis response to long-term recovery. Accordingly, the WVNG is right sizing its deployed force to match the evolving needs on the ground. 

While the total number of Guardsmen will decrease from the initial emergency surge, this adjusted footprint is specifically tailored to provide the exact type of support these areas require. This smaller, focused force will concentrate its efforts on extensive debris removal and community cleanup. 

By adjusting our force structure, the WVNG ensures that affected regions continue to receive the necessary engineering and logistical assistance to rebuild. The West Virginia National Guard remains fully committed to our neighbors and will maintain this dedicated presence to help our communities recover.