VIRGINIA — Do not let the quiet Monday morning fool you. Forecasters are warning that conditions will change fast — and the window to prepare is closing.
Severe thunderstorms are expected to fire up after noon across portions of southwest and south-central Virginia. The greatest impacts are forecast along and south of Route 460, continuing through the afternoon and into early evening.
What Is Coming Your Way
The National Weather Service has placed parts of southern Virginia under a Level 2 of 5 Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms.
The biggest threat is wind. Gusts exceeding 60 mph could bring down trees, snap power lines, and turn loose outdoor objects into dangerous projectiles in a matter of seconds.
Heavy rainfall is the second concern. A separate Level 2 of 4 excessive rainfall risk means low-lying roads, creeks, and areas with poor drainage could flood rapidly — with little warning.
Communities in the direct path include Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Roanoke, Martinsville, Danville, Wytheville, Galax, and surrounding areas. Travel on Route 460, Interstate 81, U.S. 220, and U.S. 58 could turn hazardous as storms produce sudden drops in visibility and standing water on roadways.
What You Should Do Right Now
Do not wait until the storms arrive. Here is how to stay ahead of it:
- Secure any loose items outside your home now
- Charge your phone and portable devices before noon
- Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts — a weather radio, your phone, or a local TV station
- If a Flash Flood Warning is issued, move to higher ground immediately
- Never drive through a flooded road — even if it looks shallow
Tuesday Could Be Worse
Forecasters say confidence is growing for an even stronger storm system hitting much of Virginia on Tuesday. Additional watches and warnings are expected as that event approaches.
Stay alert and check for updates throughout the day.
Are you in one of the affected areas? Tell us how conditions look where you are in the comments — your update could help a neighbor stay safe.
