Blacksburg, Virginia – Thunderstorms packing hail and heavy rain could slam into southwest Virginia Tuesday night, raising concerns for evening travel and localized flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, strong to severe storms are likely between 7 p.m. and midnight Tuesday. Winds may gust over 30 mph, and brief downpours could dump up to three-quarters of an inch of rain within an hour. The most at-risk areas include Montgomery County, Pulaski, Roanoke, and stretches along I-81. Isolated flash flooding and hail up to one inch in diameter are the primary threats.
Drivers should avoid flooded roads, especially in low-lying areas and near streams. Power outages may occur where wind gusts topple tree limbs or utility lines.
Wednesday may bring a few lingering showers in the morning, with thunderstorm chances tapering off by evening. Highs will reach the mid-70s under partly sunny skies. Wind gusts near 20 mph are possible.
Looking ahead, Thursday through Saturday appears more stable, though spotty showers may return Thursday and Thursday night. Friday and Saturday are expected to stay mostly sunny, with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s — a pleasant stretch of late-May summer weather.
Five-Day Outlook for Blacksburg:
- Wednesday: Chance of showers, high near 76°F
- Thursday: Spotty showers possible, high 68°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny and clear, high 62°F
- Saturday: Sunny, high 71°F
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high 72°F
