Virginia – Rain-soaked roads and low clouds are already signaling another wet day across the New River Valley. More rounds of showers and thunderstorms will move through the region today, raising the risk of flooding on creeks, low-water crossings and major roadways before conditions gradually improve later tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, a Flood Watch remains in effect through this evening for Blacksburg and much of southwest Virginia. Forecasters warn that repeated showers and embedded thunderstorms may produce rainfall rates capable of dropping 1 to 4 inches in the heaviest bands. Excessive runoff could quickly flood streams, creeks, poor drainage areas and flood-prone neighborhoods.
Motorists along U.S. 460, Interstate 81, U.S. 11 and Route 114 should expect periods of heavy rain, standing water and sharply reduced visibility during stronger downpours. Never drive through flooded roadways, as water depth and road damage can be impossible to judge. If your route floods, turn around and find an alternate path.
The broader weather pattern continues to support heavy rainfall across portions of the central Appalachians and Southeast as abundant Gulf moisture feeds slow-moving thunderstorms. While localized flash flooding remains the primary concern, a few storms could also produce gusty winds and frequent lightning. Tornado potential is low, but isolated spin-ups cannot be completely ruled out within stronger thunderstorms.
Conditions improve significantly beginning Tuesday as sunshine returns and temperatures climb into the lower 80s. By Wednesday and Thursday, highs surge into the lower 90s, bringing a quick transition from flood concerns to midsummer heat.
Five-Day Forecast for Blacksburg, Virginia
- Today: Showers and scattered thunderstorms. High 73°F. 80% chance of rain.
- Tonight: Mostly cloudy. Low 60°F.
- Tuesday: Becoming sunny. High 82°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny and hot. High 91°F.
- Thursday: Sunny and hot. High 92°F.
