Bristol, Va. – Strong storms packing 70 mph winds and quarter-sized hail are possible across Southwest Virginia Friday, prompting a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 6 p.m. for 18 counties and four independent cities.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, areas under the watch include Montgomery, Tazewell, Pulaski, and Lee counties, along with the cities of Bristol, Norton, Radford, and Galax. The main threats include downed trees, scattered power outages, and dangerous lightning strikes.
High-impact travel routes such as I-81 through Wythe, Smyth, and Washington counties may experience sudden visibility drops and debris on the road. Outdoor plans in Giles, Buchanan, and Floyd counties should be postponed, especially as fast-moving cells could arrive with little warning. Residents are urged to secure loose items and remain indoors during storm activity.
This is the first severe thunderstorm watch for the region in May and could be a precursor to a wetter pattern heading into the weekend. If warnings are issued, take immediate shelter and monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts for updates.
More advisories may be issued as storms evolve through the afternoon. The thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. Friday.
