Torrential rain led to a rare Flash Flood Emergency being issued early Thursday for portions of West Virginia, placing areas like Charleston under imminent threat.

Heavy rains have eased off in parts of the region, but flood warnings remain through part of the day.A flash flood warning was issued

A dangerous and life-threatening situation is unfolding in portions of West Virginia as officials urge residents in many communities to seek higher ground immediately after forecasters issued a rare Flash Flood Emergency early Thursday morning.