The 1985 Flood in Paw Paw, WV
The Election Day Flood that changed Paw Paw forever
On November 4–5, 1985, Paw Paw faced one of the most devastating natural disasters in its history. Known across the region as the Election Day Flood, this catastrophic event brought record‑breaking rainfall to the Potomac Highlands, overwhelming rivers and streams and unleashing destruction on a scale the town had never seen before.
For many residents, the 1985 flood is not just history — it is a lived memory, a moment that reshaped the town and left a lasting mark on the community.
What Caused the 1985 Flood?
The flood was triggered by a rare and deadly weather pattern:
- A stalled storm system over the Potomac Highlands
- More than a foot of rain in some areas
- Saturated ground from earlier fall storms
- Rapid runoff from the surrounding mountains
The Potomac River rose with terrifying speed, fed by swollen creeks like the Little Cacapon and countless mountain streams. Within hours, water levels surged far beyond anything recorded in decades.
How the Flood Impacted Paw Paw
The destruction in Paw Paw was widespread and severe:
- Homes along the river and low‑lying streets were swept away
- Businesses were destroyed or filled with mud and debris
- Roads, bridges, and culverts vanished under the water
- Power and phone service were knocked out
- Families were forced to evacuate in the middle of the night
- Entire neighborhoods were cut off from emergency responders
Many residents still remember the sound of the river — a deep, relentless roar — and the shock of waking up to find familiar landmarks gone.
A Night of Fear and Rescue
As the water rose, neighbors became first responders:
- Families helped each other climb to attics and rooftops
- Boats were used to reach stranded residents
- People formed human chains to cross rushing water
- Volunteers worked through the night to move children, pets, and elderly residents to safety
The town’s fire department, rescue squads, and countless volunteers risked their lives to help others. Their actions saved lives and became part of Paw Paw’s collective memory of courage.
The Aftermath: Mud, Loss, and Determination
When the water finally receded, the scale of the damage became clear:
- Homes were left filled with mud several feet deep
- Personal belongings were scattered across fields and riverbanks
- Businesses faced months of cleanup and rebuilding
- Roads were impassable, isolating parts of the community
- Families who lost everything had to start from scratch
Despite the devastation, Paw Paw came together in extraordinary ways. Churches, neighbors, and local organizations provided food, clothing, shelter, and emotional support. Volunteers from surrounding towns arrived to help shovel mud, clear debris, and rebuild.
The recovery took months — and for some families, years — but the town’s resilience never wavered.
A Flood That Redefined Paw Paw
The 1985 flood changed more than the landscape. It reshaped:
- How the town planned for emergencies
- Where homes and businesses were rebuilt
- The community’s understanding of the river’s power
- The stories passed down to younger generations
For many residents, the flood is a defining moment — a reminder of both the river’s danger and the strength of Paw Paw’s people.
Remembering 1985 Today
The Election Day Flood remains one of the most significant events in Paw Paw’s modern history. It is remembered not only for its destruction, but for the bravery, compassion, and unity that carried the town through its darkest hours.