Richmond, VA – Severe thunderstorms are developing across southeast and central Virginia this afternoon, prompting a thunderstorm watch until 9 p.m. Monday with threats of damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, large hail, and frequent lightning.
According to the National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center, storms are expected to track northeast through Richmond, Petersburg, Williamsburg, and into coastal areas including Virginia Beach and Chesapeake. Hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter is possible, and while tornadoes are not the primary threat, one or two cannot be completely ruled out.
Drivers on I-64 and U.S. 460 should expect sudden gusts, poor visibility, and possible debris on the roads. Power outages and downed tree limbs are possible, especially in rural and wooded areas. More than 5 million people are in the watch zone, and residents are urged to charge phones, secure outdoor furniture, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Storms will continue through the evening hours with the most intense activity expected before nightfall. Stay tuned to local alerts and be ready to move to shelter if warnings are issued.
The watch remains in effect through 9 p.m., with more advisories possible if storms intensify.
