Richmond, VA – Damaging winds, hail, and a possible tornado or two could sweep across Virginia this afternoon as severe thunderstorms move west to east beginning around 2 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, storms will develop in waves through 3 a.m. Saturday, with strong wind gusts up to 70 mph posing the greatest threat. A Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe storms has been issued for much of central and eastern Virginia, including Richmond, Norfolk, and Williamsburg.
Cities like Louisa, Farmville, and Wakefield are also in the impact zone, where storms may produce scattered large hail up to the size of quarters and isolated tornadoes. The risk area stretches into Hampton Roads, with residents from Virginia Beach to Exmore advised to stay weather-aware during the evening commute and overnight hours.
Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel during storms, secure outdoor objects, and prepare for power outages. This event follows a period of warm, unstable air and increasing wind shear—conditions favorable for rotating storms.
The NWS urges residents to have multiple ways to receive warnings, as watches or additional alerts may be issued later today.
