Blacksburg, Va. – Storms are set to disrupt midweek travel in southwest Virginia, with heavy rain and thunder expected through Thursday. Drivers along Interstate 81 should plan for slower commutes as wet pavement and low visibility raise safety concerns.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, Tuesday brings only isolated showers, but conditions worsen by Wednesday and Thursday. Thunderstorms will develop late Wednesday morning, lasting through Thursday night, with some storms producing damaging winds, hail, and localized flooding. Rainfall totals could reach over an inch in heavier cells.
Montgomery, Floyd, and Roanoke counties are among the areas most at risk for disruptions. Afternoon downpours could affect both school dismissals and evening rush hour. Virginia Tech students and staff should expect walking delays across campus, particularly around Main Street and Prices Fork Road, as storms move in.
Emergency managers urge residents to charge devices, secure outdoor items, and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather windows. Motorists should slow down, keep headlights on, and allow extra braking distance when storms strike. Flood-prone back roads in Giles and Pulaski counties could quickly become hazardous.
The storm threat diminishes by Friday, but scattered showers linger into the weekend. By early next week, drier skies and cooler mornings will bring a more classic fall feel.
Hazardous Weather Outlooks remain in effect, and additional advisories could be issued if storms intensify.
Five-Day Forecast for Blacksburg, VA
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, isolated storms, high near 79.
- Wednesday: Showers and storms likely, high 77.
- Thursday: Heavy rain, thunderstorms, high 75.
- Friday: Scattered showers, mostly cloudy, high 74.
- Saturday: Partly cloudy, drier, high 77.
