"Devastating Ohio River Floods Submerge Towns Across 5 States"
The Ohio River has reached major flood status due to incessant rainfall, causing significant flooding in towns along the Ohio-West Virginia border such as Marietta and Parkersburg. States of emergency have been declared, with reports of floodwater entering homes and businesses. Cleanup efforts are underway, but recovery is expected to be a long process. In Cincinnati, preparations are being made for the river to rise to at least minor flood stage, with some parks closed and a barrier dam in place. The NOAA forecasts above-average rainfall in the Ohio Valley throughout April, which is expected to keep river levels high.