Blacksburg, VA – Residents across Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina should prepare for periods of steady rainfall through Saturday, with the potential for localized flash flooding in some areas.
According to the US National Weather Service in Blacksburg, rainfall totals will vary widely across the region. Northwest North Carolina and portions of the southern Blue Ridge in Virginia are expected to see the heaviest precipitation, with 1 to 2 inches likely by Saturday morning. Elsewhere, rainfall totals are expected to reach:
- 0.5 to 1.0 inches across Southeast West Virginia
- 0.5 to 1.0 inches across most counties along and west of the I-81 corridor in Virginia
- 0.5 to 1.0 inches in the Virginia and North Carolina Piedmont
While much of the rainfall will be beneficial in easing dry conditions, forecasters warn that quick bursts of heavy rain and training thunderstorms could overwhelm local drainage systems, especially in mountain areas. This increases the risk of flash flooding along creeks, streams, and low-lying roadways.
The Weather Service emphasized caution, especially for drivers. Even shallow standing water on roads can pose dangers, particularly in flood-prone zones near the southern Blue Ridge.
The heaviest rainfall is expected between Wednesday and Friday evening, tapering off into Saturday morning. Travelers along Interstate 81 in Virginia and those in foothill communities of Northwest North Carolina should remain alert to changing conditions.
Residents are advised to monitor updated forecasts, avoid flooded roads, and allow extra travel time if heavy downpours occur during commutes.
