Virginia Beach, Va. – Smoke hangs over the coastline while the July sun quickly turns up the heat across Hampton Roads. The combination of oppressive humidity, lingering wildfire smoke and developing thunderstorms could make conditions change rapidly through the afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, a Heat Advisory remains in effect from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. EDT. Heat index values are expected to reach 105 to 108 degrees across portions of southeast Virginia. An Air Quality Alert also remains in effect through tonight as wildfire smoke continues to reduce air quality, especially for children, older adults and anyone with respiratory conditions.
Temperatures will climb to around 94 degrees this afternoon, but it will feel considerably hotter. Patchy smoke is expected through the morning before skies become mostly sunny. By late afternoon and into the evening, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop across the region.
Meteorologists are also monitoring the potential for a few strong to severe storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning and locally heavy rainfall. While widespread severe weather is not guaranteed, any storm that develops could quickly reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions.
Motorists traveling on I-64, I-264, U.S. 58, Virginia Beach Boulevard and along the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel should be prepared for rapidly changing weather. Slow down on wet pavement, avoid flooded roadways and allow extra travel time during heavier downpours.
If you have outdoor plans, finish strenuous activities before midday whenever possible. Drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing and take frequent breaks in air conditioning. Keep a close eye on radar through the afternoon as storms may strengthen with little warning.
Sunday turns slightly cooler, though scattered showers remain likely. Another round of showers and thunderstorms returns Monday and Tuesday before temperatures settle back into the lower 80s later next week. The Climate Prediction Center continues to indicate above-normal temperatures are favored beyond this five-day period.
Traveling around Hampton Roads today? Let us know what you’re seeing where you are.
Five-Day Forecast for Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Sunday: Partly sunny with showers and thunderstorms likely. High 90°F, Low 75°F.
- Monday: Chance of showers and thunderstorms. High 85°F, Low 77°F.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny with a chance of thunderstorms. High 93°F, Low 78°F.
- Wednesday: Showers likely with thunderstorms possible. High 88°F, Low 74°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny with a chance of showers. High 82°F, Low 74°F.
