Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tropical Storm Closes Area Destinations; Tornado, Flood Watch in Effect

As Tropical Storm Andrea approaches the Historic Triangle, several area destinations are closing in anticipation of severe weather and heavy rain.

So far, Busch Gardens, Water Country USA and Waller Mill Park have announced they will be closed Friday.

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for James City County, the City of Williamsburg and York County through 8 p.m. All three localities are also under a flood watch through the evening. The City of Williamsburg and James City County have a flash flood warning until 11 p.m. Rains associated with Tropical Storm Andrea will likely drop 2 to 3 inches of rain, though some areas may see more than 3 inches of rain.

NWS asks residents near creeks, rivers and other waterways to be mindful of possible flooding.

Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas.

The City of Williamsburg offered the following flooding facts:

  • 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only 2 feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles. This includes pickups and SUVs.
  • The Centers for Disease Control report that more than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters.
  • If you come to an area covered with water, you will not know the depth of the water or the condition of the ground under the water.

This article will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.

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