Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Southwestern Virginia and Neighboring Areas
A severe thunderstorm warning is active until 2:30 PM EDT for parts of Virginia with risks of damaging winds and hail. A watch is also in effect until 6 PM EDT for areas in North Carolina and Virginia. Residents are urged to take precautions until the storm passes.
A severe thunderstorm warning is currently in effect until 2:30 PM EDT for several counties in southwestern Virginia, including the northwest regions of Smyth, Tazewell, and Bland, as well as parts of Wythe and Mercer counties. Reports indicate that by 1:51 PM EDT, the storms were detected forming a line moving toward the east at approximately 45 miles per hour, with potentially devastating effects.
The primary hazards associated with this weather system include wind gusts clocked at 70 miles per hour and hail the size of ping pong balls. These conditions pose serious risks not only to people but to animals outdoors as well. Damage is expected to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles, and there’s a significant likelihood of severe tree damage. Key locations such as Bluefield, Richlands, Tazewell, Saltville, Cedar Bluff, Matoaka, and Ceres could be heavily impacted.
Residents in the path of the storm are advised to take necessary precautions immediately. Moving indoors to a secure structure is recommended, particularly to an interior room on the lowest floor and staying away from windows. The National Weather Service has urged anyone to report hail and wind damage, including downed trees or large branches, by calling their toll-free number. Further updates can be shared through social media platforms, specifically their Facebook page and on Twitter.
In addition to the storm warnings, a severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of North Carolina and Virginia until 6 PM EDT. This watch covers multiple counties, including Surry, Ashe, Watauga, and several others in Virginia and West Virginia. These regions need to remain vigilant for potential severe weather as the day progresses.
With increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, it is crucial for communities to keep informed and prepared for such unexpected weather events. The coming hours will determine the extent of this storm’s impact as it continues to move across the affected areas.
In summary, a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 2:30 PM EDT, affecting several counties in southwestern Virginia. The storms are moving at a pace that could bring damaging winds and large hail. Residents are advised to stay informed, take shelter, and report damages as necessary. Additionally, a watch remains active until 6 PM EDT for multiple counties in North Carolina and Virginia, indicating the ongoing severity of the weather conditions today.
Original Source: www.bdtonline.com
