Rift, West Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Rift
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 Rift
Location in West Virginia
Rift
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia |
| County | McDowell |
| Elevation | 1,512 ft (461 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| Area code(s) | 304 & 681 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1555482 |
Rift is a small place in McDowell County, West Virginia, United States. It's known as an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that aren't officially part of a city or town. Rift is located along West Virginia Route 16, about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) southeast of a place called War.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community like Rift is a neighborhood or area without its own local government. It doesn't have a mayor or city council. Instead, the county government usually takes care of services. These services include things like roads and public safety.
How Unincorporated Communities Work
People living in these areas still get important services. The county government provides police, fire, and other public services. They also handle things like road maintenance. This is different from a city, which has its own local rules.
Living in Unincorporated Areas
Living in an unincorporated community can be a bit different. There might be fewer local rules about building or land use. Residents often rely on county-level services. These areas are common in many parts of the United States.
Exploring McDowell County
Rift is located in McDowell County, West Virginia. This county is in the southern part of the state. It's known for its beautiful Appalachian Mountains. The area has a rich history, especially with coal mining.
Geography of the Region
McDowell County is very hilly and mountainous. It has many forests and winding roads. The landscape is typical of the Appalachian region. This makes for scenic views and outdoor activities.
Route 16 and Local Travel
West Virginia Route 16 is an important road. It connects many communities in the area. For places like Rift, this road is key for travel. It helps people get to nearby towns and services.
