Richmond, VA — A powerful line of severe thunderstorms is sweeping across central and northern Virginia, with dangerous wind gusts and large hail threatening residents through early Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 1 a.m. EDT Tuesday for northern and central Virginia, including cities such as Richmond and Staunton, as well as eastern West Virginia. The alert was issued at 6:50 p.m. Monday as supercells continued moving eastward across the region.
Forecasters warn of damaging wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph, with the potential for scattered large hail up to 2 inches in diameter. The strongest storms are expected to form in clusters, capable of spreading quickly and intensifying overnight.
Residents are advised to remain indoors and avoid travel unless necessary. Secure outdoor items, stay away from windows, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local news for potential warnings. While tornadoes are not currently forecasted, the National Weather Service notes that severe thunderstorms can occasionally produce them without much warning.
Stay alert as conditions develop overnight and continue monitoring for further updates and emergency alerts into Tuesday morning.
