Blacksburg, Va. – Strong storms could bring large hail, damaging winds, and a low tornado threat to parts of southwest Virginia this afternoon, with the most significant risk west of I-77, according to the National Weather Service.
A slight risk of severe weather is in place for areas west of the Blue Ridge through Tuesday evening, with a marginal risk elsewhere across the region. According to the NWS Blacksburg office, a broken line of storms is expected to develop late Tuesday and push eastward, weakening after sunset. These storms may produce wind gusts over 60 mph, hail larger than quarters, and an isolated tornado.
Areas including Wytheville, Hillsville, and parts of the Virginia-North Carolina border could see the strongest activity. Drivers along I-77 and I-81 should stay alert for sudden downpours and strong wind gusts during the evening commute. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items and charge mobile devices in case of power outages.
Another round of marginally severe storms is possible Wednesday, particularly across the Piedmont, with damaging winds and an isolated tornado again being the main concerns. Storm threats may linger through midweek.
