Pennington Gap, Va. – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for Lee County until midnight Friday, with damaging winds, hail, and frequent lightning possible.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, storms are expected to strengthen through the evening as unstable air fuels clusters of thunderstorms across Southwest Virginia. Residents should prepare for wind gusts over 60 mph and quarter-size hail in the strongest cells.
Local emergency officials warn travel on U.S. Highway 58 could become hazardous if storms down trees or power lines. Power outages remain a concern, especially in rural communities outside Pennington Gap and Jonesville where outages can be prolonged.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, avoid driving during heavy rain, and move indoors at the first sign of lightning. Charging phones and devices ahead of potential outages is also recommended.
The storm threat should taper off after midnight, though lingering showers may continue into early Saturday. More advisories could be issued if conditions intensify.
