Blacksburg, Virginia – Strong thunderstorms are expected to return to southwest Virginia Saturday afternoon, with damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rain threatening areas near the Virginia-North Carolina border.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, storms will likely intensify between late Saturday afternoon and early evening. An elevated severe weather risk has been issued for much of the region, especially along and south of the VA/NC border. Scattered storms could produce wind gusts over 60 mph and hail up to an inch in diameter. Localized flooding is also possible due to heavy downpours.
Communities in the New River Valley, as well as parts of southeast West Virginia and southwest Virginia, could see the strongest impacts. Flood-prone areas may see brief road closures or delays. Residents planning outdoor events should monitor alerts and stay indoors if storms approach.
Officials urge everyone to have multiple ways to receive warnings, including NOAA Weather Radio and mobile alerts. If under a warning, shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows.
Storm activity is expected to taper off overnight, but additional alerts may be issued if conditions worsen.
