Norfolk, Va. – Coastal Virginia is under a tropical storm warning this Thursday as high winds and dangerous seas build across the region, creating life-threatening conditions for mariners.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, north to northeast winds are reaching 30 to 35 knots with gusts up to 45 knots offshore, driving waves as high as 18 feet in the Atlantic. Inside the Chesapeake Bay, winds of 25 to 30 knots are producing waves of 5 to 8 feet. The lower James River and Currituck Sound are also seeing gusts near 40 knots with wave heights of 2 to 5 feet.
The storm is expected to make marine travel nearly impossible through Thursday evening, with the risk of capsizing, damaged vessels, and reduced visibility. Coastal communities from Virginia Beach to Chincoteague are bracing for rough surf and hazardous rip currents, with beach erosion also possible.
Mariners are urged to remain in port, secure vessels, and avoid travel until conditions improve. Residents along the coast should also stay alert for possible flooding along low-lying shorelines as strong onshore winds persist into the evening.
Tropical storm warnings remain in effect until further notice, with updates expected later today as winds gradually ease overnight.
