Blacksburg, VA – A fast-moving severe thunderstorm packing 60 mph wind gusts is sweeping through parts of southwestern Virginia and southeastern West Virginia this afternoon, with the potential to bring down trees, tear off siding, and cause power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, the warning remains in effect until 2:00 p.m. EDT for Giles, Bland, and Craig counties in Virginia, as well as Summers, Mercer, Monroe, and Greenbrier counties in West Virginia. Radar at 12:59 p.m. showed the storm near Oakvale, moving northeast at 40 mph.
Cities under threat include Princeton, Pearisburg, Narrows, Alderson, Pembroke, Athens, and Peterstown. Strong winds could damage roofs and trees, and flying debris may become dangerous.
Residents are urged to seek shelter on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows. If you encounter damage or hail, report it to the NWS Blacksburg office or share photos on their Facebook page or X account.
The warning is expected to expire by 2 p.m., but additional advisories could be issued if conditions worsen or new storm cells form.
