Richmond, VA – Coastal Virginia faces multiple weather hazards today, including high rip current risks and minor coastal flooding, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wakefield.
Forecasters said Thursday will bring mostly to partly cloudy skies with warmer conditions. Highs are expected in the upper 70s for most areas, with some Piedmont communities nearing 80 degrees. Scattered showers are possible east of I-95 this morning before skies clear in the afternoon.
According to NWS, Coastal Flood Advisories remain in effect across the Chesapeake Bay, tidal Potomac, Rappahannock, York, and James Rivers, as well as the Atlantic coast. Nuisance to minor flooding is forecast, with up to one foot of inundation in low-lying areas. Some roads may become covered by shallow water. Advisories are set to continue through late Friday afternoon.
At the same time, officials warn of a high risk for rip currents along all Atlantic beaches from Ocean City, Maryland, to the Currituck Outer Banks in North Carolina. Surf heights are expected to reach three to five feet today. A moderate risk will persist Friday, with another high risk possible Saturday across the Outer Banks.
Beachgoers are urged to avoid swimming outside guarded areas and heed posted warnings. “Dangerous rips are expected. Don’t swim unless swimming is allowed,” NWS officials cautioned.
Residents in flood-prone areas should monitor local updates and avoid driving through standing water.
