WEST VIRGINIA — Widespread power outages caused by strong overnight storms have forced multiple school systems across West Virginia to close or delay classes Friday, as utilities continue restoration efforts.
More than 82,000 customers were without electricity across the state as of early Friday morning after a powerful line of storms moved through late Thursday night.
Strong winds and heavy rain brought down trees and power lines, leaving large sections of central and southern West Virginia without service.
The latest school closings and delays in West Virginia may be viewed here.
The outages affected heating systems, lighting, water pumps, and safety systems, making it impossible to safely operate buildings. Several districts reported that schools either remained without power Friday morning or were uncertain when electricity would be restored, prompting decisions to close for the day or delay opening.
Counties with some of the highest outage numbers included Kanawha, Mingo, Taylor, Marion, Calhoun, Harrison, Raleigh, and Logan.
Utility crews worked overnight and into Friday morning to restore service. Officials encouraged families to monitor district communications for updates as power restoration continues and conditions improve.
