Lynchburg, Va. – A tornado watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. Friday for much of central and south-central Virginia, as well as parts of north-central North Carolina, with strong storms capable of producing damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, Tornado Watch 348 includes 20 counties and cities across both states, stretching from Rockbridge and Franklin counties in west-central Virginia to Caswell, Rockingham, and Stokes counties in North Carolina.
Cities including Lynchburg, Danville, Martinsville, Buena Vista, and Lexington are under heightened alert, with forecasters urging residents to remain indoors and have shelter plans ready. The storms are expected to intensify through the evening hours, with the primary threats being rotating thunderstorms, frequent lightning, and downed trees or powerlines.
Motorists are advised to avoid travel in affected areas as sudden wind shifts or debris could create hazardous road conditions. Mobile homes and temporary structures are especially vulnerable.
Residents should monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local media for updates. Additional watches or warnings could be issued as storms evolve through tonight.
