Richmond, Va. – Drivers across central and southeastern Virginia should be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions this afternoon and evening as heavy thunderstorms bring the threat of flash flooding, prompting a Flood Watch through midnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a Flood Watch is in effect from 3 p.m. until midnight for much of central and southeastern Virginia, extending into northeast North Carolina. Forecasters say repeated rounds of heavy rain could overwhelm drainage systems, particularly in urban areas and locations prone to flooding.
Most communities are expected to receive 1 to 2 inches of rainfall, but localized totals exceeding 3 to 5 inches are possible where thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same area. The greatest concern includes the Richmond metro, the Hampton Roads region, Petersburg, Emporia, Williamsburg, Franklin and surrounding communities, along with portions of northeast North Carolina.
Flooding is most likely in low-lying neighborhoods, small streams, underpasses and roads with poor drainage. Brief road closures are possible if heavy rain falls faster than storm drains can handle, especially during the evening commute.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways and should remember the message: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Those with evening travel plans should monitor the latest radar and weather alerts, as flash flood warnings may be issued with little advance notice if rainfall intensifies.
The Flood Watch remains in effect through midnight, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued if thunderstorms produce persistent heavy rainfall across the region.
