While locals are still cleaning debris from their yards after last Friday’s storm, forecasters are calling for more treacherous conditions this weekend.
The National Weather Service in Wakefield announced Wednesday there is an enhanced risk for severe weather Friday for parts of southeastern Virginia.
“It is going to come in different ways and types of weather,” said Mike Rusnak, a meterologist with NWS. “It’s going to be a widespread event.”
Rusnak said the wind will come first on Friday, followed by showers and thunderstorms late into the night. He added the main locations for the storm will be along the coast from northern North Carolina throughout southeast Virginia, with a heavy focus in southern Virginia.
The weather is predicted to produce 60-80 mph wind gusts Friday afternoon with a possibility of hail. Additionally, the storms are expected to produce heavy rain and create the potential for flash flooding.
Flash flooding will most likely occur along Interstate 95 west, but all areas should be prepared.
Around one to two inches of rain is expected, which can be considered a significant amount of rain during one evening, Rusnak said.
Rain will hit Williamsburg first late Friday afternoon and then most likely will come to Virginia Beach an hour or so after, Rusnak said. Times will be more specific as the storm gets closer.
Currently, the forecast is showing favorable environments for potential tornadoes Friday afternoon and into Friday night.
Rusnak said conditions will be most favorable toward North Carolina. The National Weather Service advised all residents within the region should prepare for a potential emergency situation.
The storm is coming from a strong cold front in the Ohio Valley, Rusnak said. It will cross the mountains and into southeast Virginia over the course of Friday.
