Roanoke, Virginia – A steady warmup will push temperatures across western Virginia into the mid to upper 70s by Saturday afternoon, bringing springlike warmth and increasing the risk of late-day thunderstorms.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, there is a 60 to 70 percent probability of above-normal temperatures across the central Appalachians through early next week. Western Virginia, including Roanoke, Blacksburg, and Lynchburg, sits on the eastern edge of a widespread heat surge impacting much of the U.S.
Roanoke is expected to reach the upper 70s between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, with similar conditions extending along the I-81 corridor. Blacksburg and higher elevations will trend slightly cooler but still above normal, while valleys warm more efficiently under partly sunny skies.
By late afternoon into the evening, increasing moisture will trigger scattered showers and thunderstorms across the region. Storms may produce brief heavy rain, lightning, and wind gusts over 35 mph, especially along I-81 and U.S. 460, potentially impacting travel.
Residents should plan outdoor activities earlier in the day, stay hydrated, and remain alert for changing weather during the evening hours. This pattern will persist through the weekend into early next week, with additional advisories possible as conditions evolve.
