Bristol, Virginia – Severe thunderstorms are expected to sweep through the Virginia-Tennessee border region Thursday evening, bringing 70 mph wind gusts and large hail up to 2 inches in diameter.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 11 p.m. EDT for eastern Tennessee, far southwest Virginia, eastern Kentucky, and a portion of far southwest North Carolina. The greatest risks include scattered damaging winds and isolated instances of very large hail.
Cities such as Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, and Norton should be prepared for rapidly intensifying storms capable of downing trees, damaging roofs, and disrupting evening commutes. Travel along I-81 and US-23 could be impacted, especially where strong gusts or hail reduce visibility and cause road hazards.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, remain indoors during warnings, and charge mobile devices in case of power outages. While tornadoes are not the primary threat, the intensity of some storm clusters could mimic similar damage.
Storms will continue eastward into the late evening. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued if conditions escalate. Stay tuned to local alerts as watches remain active across the region through tonight.
