Blacksburg, Virginia – Residents across central and eastern Virginia should prepare for another round of severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, with the greatest threat shifting east of the Blue Ridge where damaging wind gusts, isolated tornadoes and localized flash flooding are all possible.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg and the Storm Prediction Center, a cold front moving south will trigger thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts over 60 mph. The highest risk for damaging winds extends mainly along and east of the Blue Ridge, while the tornado threat is greatest east of Route 29. Heavy rainfall could also produce flash flooding, especially in low-lying, urban and poor-drainage areas, with the greatest flooding concern along and south of Route 460.
Communities including Lynchburg, Danville, South Boston, Martinsville and portions of the Roanoke Valley should remain alert for rapidly changing weather during the afternoon commute and evening hours. Falling trees, scattered power outages and hazardous travel are possible where the strongest storms develop.
Anyone with outdoor plans should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and be ready to move inside a sturdy building immediately if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning or Tornado Warning is issued. Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roadways, where water depths can be deceptive.
Storms are expected to weaken later tonight as the cold front pushes farther south, but additional watches or warnings could be issued this afternoon if storms intensify. Stay tuned to the National Weather Service for the latest updates as conditions evolve.
