Virginia – Calm skies this Monday morning won’t last. By this afternoon, thunderstorms are expected to rapidly intensify across portions of southwest and south-central Virginia, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts, torrential rainfall, and localized flash flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, another severe weather and flooding threat exists this afternoon, especially along and south of Route 460. Storms are expected to develop after noon, with the greatest impacts continuing through the afternoon and early evening.
Forecasters have outlined a Level 2 of 5 Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms across parts of southern Virginia, while a Level 2 of 4 risk for excessive rainfall highlights the potential for localized flash flooding. The primary concern is damaging wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, although repeated heavy downpours may quickly flood low-lying roads, creeks, and poor-drainage areas.
Communities including Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Roanoke, Martinsville, Danville, Wytheville, Galax, and surrounding areas should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions. Travel along U.S. Route 460, Interstate 81, U.S. 220, and U.S. 58 could become hazardous as storms produce sudden reductions in visibility, standing water, and isolated tree damage.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, charge mobile devices, and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings before storms develop. If a Flash Flood Warning is issued, move to higher ground and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
Forecasters also note that confidence is increasing for an even greater severe weather and flooding threat on Tuesday, when a stronger system is expected to impact much of Virginia. Additional watches and warnings are likely as that event approaches.
