Tornado Warning Issued for Ripley and Ravenswood, West Virginia as Severe Storm Moves East at 45 MPH
WEST VIRGINIA — A tornado warning has been issued for parts of Jackson and Roane counties as a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado moves east at approximately 45 mph.
The storm was located near Ripley and tracking toward communities including Ravenswood, Reedy, Spencer, and areas along the Interstate 77 corridor. Officials are urging residents to take shelter immediately.
Storm Positioned Near Ripley
Radar imagery shows a strong thunderstorm with intense reflectivity and embedded lightning near Ripley, West Virginia.
The warning polygon includes:
- Ripley
- Ravenswood
- Reedy
- Spencer
- Areas near Elizabeth
The storm is moving east at 45 mph, meaning impacted communities have limited time to prepare.
Tornado Possible Within Severe Thunderstorm
While a tornado has not been visually confirmed, meteorologists indicate the storm is capable of producing one. Residents in the warning area should treat this as an active tornado threat and take protective action immediately.
Storm characteristics include:
- Strong rotation indicated on radar
- Heavy rainfall
- Frequent lightning
- Potential damaging wind gusts
What Residents Should Do Now
If you are in the warned area:
- Move to a basement if available
- Go to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building
- Stay away from windows
- Cover yourself with blankets or protective materials
Those in mobile homes or vehicles should move to the nearest substantial shelter immediately.
Do not wait to see the tornado.
I-77 Corridor Impacted
The warning includes areas near Interstate 77, a major travel route through the region. Motorists traveling along I-77 near Ripley and Ravenswood should monitor weather alerts and be prepared to seek shelter if conditions worsen. Rapid eastward movement at 45 mph means conditions can change quickly.
Stay Alert
Severe weather events can intensify rapidly, especially during active thunderstorm periods. Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and keep multiple ways to receive warnings. Stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for continuing updates as this tornado warning situation develops across West Virginia.
