Sheen and Petroleum Odor Reported Along Kanawha River in Charleston

West Virginia DEP investigating source of pollution in major waterway

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:50am

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The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection received a report of a sheen and petroleum smell along the Kanawha River in Charleston on Thursday night. Responders found the sheen coming from a storm water outfall, and an absorbent boom was deployed while water samples were taken for testing.

Why it matters

The Kanawha River is a vital waterway for the Charleston region, providing drinking water, recreation, and supporting local wildlife. Any potential pollution incident raises concerns about environmental and public health impacts that need to be swiftly addressed.

The details

According to a spokesperson for the West Virginia DEP, responders saw the sheen coming from a storm water outfall in the 300 block of Kanawha Boulevard in Charleston. An absorbent boom was put in place and water samples were collected to determine the source and nature of the pollution.

  • The incident was reported to the West Virginia DEP on Thursday night, March 27, 2026.

The players

West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection

The state agency responsible for enforcing environmental regulations and responding to pollution incidents in West Virginia.

City of Charleston

The local government of Charleston, West Virginia, which is working with the state DEP on the investigation.

Terry Fletcher

A spokesperson for the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection.

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What’s next

The West Virginia DEP and the city of Charleston are waiting on the results of the water sample testing to determine the source and nature of the pollution incident.

The takeaway

Prompt response and investigation by state and local authorities is critical to addressing potential environmental threats to the Kanawha River, a vital waterway for the Charleston region.