Richmond, Virginia – Strong to severe storms could disrupt the evening commute across southern and central Virginia Wednesday, with the greatest threat for damaging wind gusts hitting between 3 and 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, isolated severe storms are expected to develop along and south of I-64 as a weak cold front sweeps through the region. Wind gusts between 50 and 60 mph are possible in areas including Richmond, Williamsburg, Norfolk, and South Hill.
While the overall storm coverage is expected to be scattered, the primary concern is strong straight-line winds capable of downing tree limbs and power lines. Hail, tornadoes, and flooding are not expected at this time. Temperatures will remain unseasonably warm, reaching the mid to upper 80s across much of central and southeastern Virginia.
Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel during the peak storm window and secure outdoor items that could become airborne. Residents are encouraged to monitor alerts and have multiple ways to receive warnings in case storms rapidly intensify.
Storm activity should taper off by late evening, but unsettled weather is likely to persist through the rest of the week. Additional alerts may be issued as conditions evolve.
