VIRGINIA BEACH — As the country follows the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in southeastern Texas, Hampton Roads residents should prepare for heavy wind and rain here in Virginia.
A tropical cyclone is making its way up the East Coast and could bring rain, coastal flooding, and heavy winds to the Southside Monday evening through Tuesday night, according to the National Weather Service.
The NWS has declared a flash flood watch and high wind watch for southeast Virginia, both effective Tuesday.
Sustained winds in excess of 35 miles per hour with gusts up to 60 are expected across the region Tuesday, which could down trees and power lines and cause minor damage to structures, according to the NWS.
The Southside is expected to receive between two and four inches of rain, beginning Monday through Wednesday morning. The rains could bring flooding to the coast and low-lying areas.
“The rain could start late [Monday] evening into the overnight and continue through tomorrow,” said NWS Meteorologist Mike Dutter. “The winds won’t really start picking up until late tomorrow morning. The worst of it will be tomorrow afternoon.”
The forecast indicates the heaviest rains will likely take place in the overnight hours Tuesday morning.
The National Weather Service has also issued a high surf advisory for Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks. The potential for waves with crests up to 10 feet tall and riptides will create hazardous swimming conditions.
The cyclone is projected to veer northeast into the Atlantic Ocean overnight Tuesday.
“The good news is that it will be moving at a good clip,” Dutter said. “I’d say tomorrow [Tuesday] night the winds and the rain will be subsiding. Wednesday should be a pleasant day.”
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