Roanoke, Virginia – Strong thunderstorms are expected to sweep across central and southwestern Virginia Sunday afternoon, bringing damaging winds up to 60 mph and the potential for golf ball-size hail through 10 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, the greatest threat will be severe wind gusts, with storms likely developing between 2–8 p.m. west of the Blue Ridge and 2–10 p.m. east of it. Affected areas include Roanoke, Blacksburg, Danville, Lynchburg, and Wytheville, where isolated severe cells could also produce large hail. The tornado risk remains very low.
Travelers along I-81 and U.S. 29 should remain alert for rapidly changing conditions, falling branches, and reduced visibility. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio or smartphone alerts for updates.
This afternoon’s threat falls under a Level 2 (Slight Risk) and Level 3 (Enhanced Risk) category, depending on location, marking one of the more significant convective events of early June for the region.
Severe weather risks will taper off later tonight, but additional alerts may be issued if storms intensify.
