Blacksburg, Va. – Drivers in southwest Virginia should prepare for hazardous conditions Thursday afternoon as storms capable of strong winds move in. Power outages and travel slowdowns are possible, especially along Route 460 near Blacksburg and Christiansburg.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, scattered thunderstorms are expected Thursday, September 4, with some storms producing gusty winds and lightning. Storm coverage increases during the afternoon and evening, bringing a risk of downed trees and localized outages across Montgomery, Giles, and Roanoke counties.
Commuters on Interstate 81 and Route 460 could face delays if storms intensify during the evening rush. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, keep cell phones charged, and limit unnecessary travel during stronger storms.
Friday offers a break, with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 80s, providing classic fall-like weather for outdoor plans. However, more showers return Saturday afternoon with another round of thunderstorms possible, making football tailgates and outdoor gatherings at Virginia Tech vulnerable to wet conditions.
By Sunday, temperatures cool into the low 70s with drier weather settling in, offering a more comfortable close to the weekend. Early next week, partly sunny skies and mild highs in the low 70s bring a taste of fall to the region.
Storm chances Thursday mark the biggest concern, but residents should monitor updates for additional advisories into the weekend.
Five-Day Forecast for Blacksburg, VA
- Thursday: High 77, thunderstorms developing after 3 p.m., gusty winds possible.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 81, low around 61.
- Saturday: Showers and storms after 2 p.m., high 79.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, cooler, high 72, low near 53.
- Monday: Partly sunny, pleasant, high near 72.
