Severe Weather Alerts for Southwest Virginia and Southeast West Virginia
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning and a Flood Warning for southwest Virginia and southeast West Virginia. High winds could cause power outages and travel difficulties. Flooding from excessive rainfall has been reported, particularly affecting the Bluestone River and nearby areas, leading to road closures and impacting structures.
The National Weather Service has issued multiple weather alerts for portions of southwest Virginia and southeast West Virginia, highlighting a High Wind Warning in effect until 1 PM EST on Monday. Residents can expect west winds gusting between 15 to 25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph, potentially resulting in downed trees and power lines, leading to power outages and challenging travel conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Additionally, a Flood Warning is now active until 4 AM EST Monday due to excessive rainfall. This alert pertains specifically to areas including Tazewell County in southwest Virginia and Mercer and Summers counties in southeast West Virginia. River and stream flooding has been reported, particularly along the Bluestone River, with structures flooding and roads closing.
At 7:08 PM EST, gauge reports indicated moderate flooding, with the Bluestone River at Spanishburg measuring 17.5 feet. This river is receding and is expected to fall below flood stage by Monday morning. Other affected locations include Bluefield, Princeton, Richlands, Tazewell, Hinton, and Cedar Bluff.
Residents are urged to remain cautious, particularly at night when identifying flood hazards may be more challenging. Individuals are advised to steer clear of riverbanks and unstable culverts. The National Weather Service encourages the public to report any flooding incidents, including mudslides and road blockages, by calling their toll-free number or sharing information on social media platforms.
In summary, the ongoing High Wind and Flood Warnings for southwest Virginia and southeast West Virginia alert residents to dangerous weather conditions. With high winds forecasted to cause disruptions and flooding threatening homes and infrastructure, individuals are encouraged to take necessary precautions for safety. Engaging with local weather authorities to report hazards will aid in maintaining community awareness and preparedness.
Original Source: www.bdtonline.com
