HAMPTON ROADS — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wakefield, Va. has issued an update regarding Tropical Storm Elsa.
A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the region. Also, Flash Flood and Tornado watches remain in effect for the Hampton Roads area.
Tropical Storm Elsa is currently moving into the area as it crosses into Hampton Roads this evening into early Friday morning. The primary threats are in the form of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, isolated tornadoes, and hazardous marine conditions.
Rain in the amounts of 1-3 inches have already fallen in the region. Residents in low lying areas such as along the Albemarle and Currituck sounds and the Back Bay area of Virginia Beach, could see a potential of 1-2 feet of inundation.
It is important that there are hazardous marine conditions as a result of what are expected to be strong winds and 6-10 foot seas. Also, there is the expectation of scattered instances and flooding across much of the Hampton Roads area.
The chart below (courtesy of NWS Wakefield) shows the storm’s threat levels as of 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 8:
Residents should expect the following impacts:
- Flooding rain: NWS Wakefield predicts that 2-5 inches of rain (with higher amounts for lower lying areas) could lead to scattered instances of flash and urban flooding. This is expected to impact this afternoon into tonight. This is expected to impact: Central/eastern Virginia, northeast North Carolina, and the Eastern Shore.
- Tornado: A few tornados may occur. This is predicted for this afternoon into tonight. This is expected to impact: Southeast/eastern Virginia, northeast North Carolina, and southeastern portions of the Eastern Shore.
- Wind: Gusts of tropical storm force across portions of the region are predicted for the region. This could scatter outdoor furniture/items left outside and blow down tree limbs. Isolated power outages are possible. This is predicted to occur this afternoon into tonight. This is expected to impact: Primarily near/along the coasts of SE/E VA, NE NC, and the Eastern Shore.
- Storm Surge and Possible Inundation: Minor tidal flooding is possible due to persistent strong southerly winds. This is predicted to occur between this afternoon into tonight.
- Marine: Strong winds and large waves could cause hazardous marine conditions. All waters in the local region are predicted to be impacted, particularly those across coastal waters, lower Chesapeake Bay, and the Currituck Sound. This is predicted to occur this afternoon into tonight.
For more information regarding Tropical Storm Elsa, visit the website for the National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center or the for Tropical Page for the National Weather Service.
WYDaily will continue to keep you informed on all storm-related news and how it could potentially impact the local region.