In late October 1985, Ttropical Storm Juan brought moisture to the Southeast. By November 3, a new storm had formed in Georgia and was moving toward West Virginia, bringing heavy rain. By November 4, rain was fallingl heavily across the region, with some areas getting 3 to 6 inches in just 12 hours. The rain continued through the night, causing severe flooding.

On November 5, rivers like the Cheat, Greenbrier, and Tygart Valley reached record levels, flooding towns like Parsons, Glenville, and Philippi. The Cheat River rose 10 feet above flood stage, setting a new record. In total, 47 people were killed, with the most fatalities in Pendleton and Grant counties.