POMEROY, OH (WOWK) – The residents of Pomeroy, Ohio, have been preparing as the Ohio River rose closer and closer to their businesses and homes along Main Street.
The flooding, caused by torrential storms that swept through the region Tuesday, has now overpoured into the community – covering Main Street, flooding businesses and burying signs. As of Friday afternoon, the river is expected to crest sometime Friday night. The crest level has also been dropped to 48.5 feet, down from the previously anticipated 51.5 feet, according to the National Weather Service.
The community rallied to evacuate as much merchandise and furniture from those businesses and move it to higher ground.
Through it all, the town’s residents say they have one another’s backs.
“It’s kind of heartbreaking. I see the panic in everybody’s eyes, and financially, it takes a toll. You can’t work,” says business owner Crystal Bailey.
Pomeroy projected to see similar flood levels as in 1979
People like Bailey and her community are united and strong, even during today’s disaster, just as they were six years ago when the river flooded in February 2018, causing similar evacuations on Main Street.
“In 2018, I had my salon at that time, and she (another business owner) had the real estate business. We were beside each other then, too. We just help each other get through it, clean up Keep moving forward, that’s all we can do,” Bailey said.
The people of Pomeroy have watched every movement of the Ohio River as it roars and rose above normal levels, flooding the street and businesses.
“We’re all here for each other,” said business owner Amy Jackson. “But the whole community is that way. Even people outside the community, and local schools have sent people to come help out.”
Michael Jewell is another business owner in Pomeroy whose business is impacted by the flood. He says through the emotions, he remains optimistic.
“It’s just incredible, amazing. I mean, there’s some emotions with it. This is our stuff, our livelihood,” Jewell said. “You have to be. We have no control over this. Just have to do the best we can, and keep on moving forward. Life can bring you many things, and how do we deal with them? There’s no sense in getting upset.”
The residents say the real challenge will be cleaning up debris and mud once the river lowers in the coming days. For that effort, the community will unite again, just like they did to prepare for the flood.