Blacksburg, Va. – Scattered thunderstorms are expected to fire up across Virginia Thursday afternoon, bringing the potential for damaging winds, downed trees, and isolated power outages. The National Weather Service says storms will likely develop shortly after midday and move eastward through the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service office in Blacksburg, the highest risk for severe activity stretches along the Blue Ridge, though storms may impact much of western and central Virginia before weakening later tonight. Gusts strong enough to topple trees and power lines are possible, raising concerns for evening commuters and those planning outdoor activities.
Cities including Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Danville sit in the zone of highest concern, where residents may see rapidly developing storms capable of producing hazardous wind gusts. Travel delays and scattered utility outages are possible, especially along busy corridors like Interstate 81 and U.S. Route 29.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, monitor weather alerts, and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storms. Power crews may be needed overnight to handle any downed lines.
Storms are expected to diminish after sunset, but forecasters warn that additional rounds of unsettled weather could return this weekend.
Five Day Forecast for Blacksburg, VA:
- Thursday: Scattered thunderstorms, highs in the low 80s, storms ending late evening.
- Friday: Partly sunny, isolated shower possible, highs near 82.
- Saturday: Increasing clouds, chance of afternoon storms, highs in the upper 70s.
- Sunday: Periods of rain and scattered thunderstorms, highs in the mid-70s.
- Monday: Mostly cloudy, cooler with highs in the low 70s.
