Roanoke, Virginia – A powerful burst of northwest winds is expected to sweep across southwest Virginia and northwest North Carolina this weekend, raising concerns for downed trees, power outages, and difficult travel from Friday evening through Saturday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a High Wind Watch is now in effect for a wide swath of the region. Sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph, especially along ridges, gaps, and other exposed locations.
In Virginia, the wind threat includes Roanoke, Blacksburg, Salem, Radford, Wytheville, Pulaski, Lexington, Bedford, and surrounding counties such as Botetourt, Rockbridge, Montgomery, Floyd, and Carroll. In northwest North Carolina, Ashe, Alleghany, Surry, Watauga, Wilkes, and nearby areas including Boone and West Jefferson are also included.
Strong winds may blow down trees and power lines, leading to scattered power outages. Travel could become hazardous for high-profile vehicles on mountain roads and open highways, particularly during the strongest gusts late Friday night and Saturday.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, avoid parking vehicles near trees, and prepare for possible power disruptions. Conditions are expected to improve Saturday night, but officials advise monitoring updates in case the watch is upgraded as the system moves closer.
