Flash floods are causing widespread destruction across the U.S., with West Virginia, Texas, and Virginia among the worst hit. Five deaths were reported in Virginia, and a building collapsed in Fairmont. West Virginia’s Wheeling Creek River rose seven feet in 90 minutes, prompting a state of emergency in Ohio County. Central Texas, including Austin and Waco, saw up to four inches of rain, while San Antonio received 10 inches in just 12 hours, more than double the June average.

Flooding has also impacted Kansas, Alabama, Louisiana, and New York. Scientists blame climate change for increased extreme rainfall, rising sea levels, and more destructive cyclones. Urbanization and deforestation worsen the problem by limiting soil absorption, leading to surface runoff and flash floods.

Experts urge action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, halting deforestation, and improving urban drainage to address the growing climate crisis.