Virginia Beach, VA – Scorching summer heat and an increasing flood risk will put much of southeast Virginia on high alert this Wednesday, July 30th. The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, and the surrounding I-264 corridor as heat indices climb past 100°, bringing dangerous conditions and the potential for afternoon storms.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, heat indices could peak between 103° and 108° on Wednesday afternoon, making outdoor activities hazardous, especially for vulnerable groups. Residents should avoid strenuous activity, stay hydrated, and limit travel during peak heat, especially along heavily traveled routes like I-264 and I-64. Officials warn that a strong cold front will move in late Thursday, increasing the threat of heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding across the region, including low-lying areas and urban roadways.
Local impacts will be felt most acutely in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Portsmouth, where the heat will challenge both residents and infrastructure. City crews are urging drivers to watch for sudden downpours and possible ponding on key routes Wednesday evening into Friday. Power outages and heat-related illnesses are possible. Residents should check on neighbors, charge devices ahead of storms, and review flood-prone routes before any Thursday or Friday travel.
Heat and humidity will remain in place through Thursday. The cold front brings a 60-80% chance of showers and storms Thursday night and Friday, with locally heavy rain possible. Saturday turns partly sunny and breezy with highs in the upper 70s, while Sunday and Monday look drier and cooler.
Five Day Detailed Forecast for Virginia Beach:
- Wednesday, July 30th: Sunny, high 90°F. Heat index values 103°-108°. Light winds.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 90°F. Chance of showers after 2pm (30%).
- Thursday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely (60%), low around 76°F.
- Friday: Showers likely, possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm (80%). High near 83°F.
- Friday Night: Showers and thunderstorms possible before 8pm, then showers after 2am (80%). Low 73°F.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, breezy. High near 79°F. Chance of showers 30%.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 80°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 81°F.
Warnings remain in effect for heat and flooding through Friday. Stay tuned for updates as weather conditions may change.
