Richmond, Va. – Strong storms are moving across Virginia Friday afternoon, prompting a severe thunderstorm watch for over 60 counties and cities, including Richmond, Roanoke, and Virginia Beach, through 11 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch covers much of central, southern, and eastern Virginia, where storms may produce damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, large hail, and frequent lightning. The alert was issued at 3:30 p.m. EDT and includes both urban and rural areas from the Blue Ridge foothills to the Tidewater region.
Cities under the watch include Lynchburg, Chesapeake, Newport News, and Danville. Drivers on I-64, I-95, and US-460 should watch for sudden downpours and reduced visibility. Isolated power outages and tree damage are possible, especially in counties like Henrico, Chesterfield, and Isle of Wight.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, monitor weather alerts, and be prepared to move indoors quickly. Mobile homes and high-profile vehicles are especially vulnerable in severe wind conditions.
This is the first widespread thunderstorm watch for the region this May. Additional watches or warnings could be issued into the overnight hours if storms continue to intensify.
