RICHMOND, Va. – Portions of central and eastern Virginia could face strong storms and damaging wind gusts late Tuesday afternoon and into the evening as temperatures soar into the 90s. The primary threat zone includes areas west of Interstate 95, where isolated severe thunderstorms may develop.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a warm front lifting across the state is responsible for the climbing temperatures, creating conditions ripe for afternoon thunderstorms, some of which could become severe. A Marginal Risk for severe weather is in effect for cities including Richmond, Petersburg, and Farmville. Patchy fog is also possible this morning before the heat builds.
Residents in the affected areas should prepare for the possibility of downed tree limbs and scattered power outages caused by strong wind gusts. It is advisable to secure loose outdoor objects and have a plan in place in case of weather warnings. Motorists should remain alert for changing conditions, especially during the evening commute.
The threat of isolated severe storms continues into Wednesday, mainly over the northern neck and Eastern Shore. A slight risk for more widespread severe weather, including damaging winds and large hail, is anticipated for Thursday. Virginians should stay tuned to local updates as the storm system moves through the region.
