Blacksburg, Va. – Low clouds and patches of fog are slowly lifting across southwest Virginia, but don’t let the quiet start fool you. Conditions are expected to change quickly this afternoon as thunderstorms develop, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts, brief heavy rain and lightning before calmer weather returns tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a Hazardous Weather Outlook remains in effect for southwest Virginia. Forecasters warn that a slight risk of severe thunderstorms exists through this afternoon and evening. Damaging wind gusts are the primary concern, while locally heavy rainfall could create isolated travel issues. Smoke from distant wildfires may also linger across the Mid-Atlantic, occasionally affecting air quality for sensitive groups.
The latest outlook calls for a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m., with temperatures climbing to around 85 degrees. Winds remain light early before increasing slightly through the afternoon. Some storms may become strong, producing frequent lightning, brief torrential rain and wind capable of downing small tree limbs. While the tornado threat remains low, the National Weather Service advises residents to stay weather aware in case stronger storms develop.
Drivers along Interstate 81, U.S. Route 460 and Route 114 should expect changing conditions during the afternoon commute. Wet pavement, ponding water and reduced visibility could develop quickly beneath heavier downpours. If thunder roars, move indoors immediately and postpone outdoor recreation until storms have cleared.
Storm chances continue each day through Tuesday, with afternoon and evening thunderstorms remaining part of the midsummer pattern. Monday brings another 60% chance of showers and storms, followed by a similar setup Tuesday before slightly cooler temperatures arrive later in the week.
Long-range outlooks favor above-normal temperatures across much of the region beyond the five-day period, keeping summer firmly in place despite periodic rounds of rain.
Planning to travel across southwest Virginia today? Let us know what you’re seeing on the roads or how conditions look in your neighborhood.
Five-Day Forecast for Blacksburg, Virginia
- Sunday: Partly sunny with a 30% chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 84°F, Low 65°F.
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m. (60%). High 83°F, Low 66°F.
- Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m. (60%). High 85°F, Low 68°F.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny with a 30% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High 81°F, Low 59°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny. High 78°F, Low 60°F.
