Norfolk, Virginia – Heavy rain and thunderstorms swept through southeastern Virginia Thursday night, forcing the National Weather Service to issue flash flood warnings across the region through early Friday morning. Roads in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Newport News are already seeing water rise, putting drivers and low-lying neighborhoods at risk of dangerous flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, radar indicated intense rainfall rates—up to two inches per half hour—beginning around 9:45 p.m. Thursday. Warnings are in effect until at least 1 a.m. Friday for Isle of Wight County, as well as the cities of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Norfolk. A separate warning covers James City, Surry, York, and Gloucester counties, plus Newport News and Poquoson, until 11:30 p.m.
Flooding is already ongoing in small creeks, underpasses, and urban roads. High-risk spots include Ocean View, Kempsville, Great Bridge, Fort Eustis, and key university campuses. Many secondary roads and intersections—especially near Old Dominion University, Regent University, and downtown areas—are rapidly becoming impassable.
Officials urge everyone to avoid non-essential travel, never drive through flooded streets, and watch for road closures. Charge devices, move vehicles to higher ground, and check local alerts for the latest updates. Nighttime flooding is especially dangerous, so stay alert and turn around if you see water covering the road.
Flash flood warnings remain in effect overnight, with more advisories possible as storms continue into Friday. Local emergency managers are monitoring rainfall and stand ready to issue further alerts if conditions worsen.
