Southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina are bracing for heavy rain and thunderstorms that could cause flash flooding from Friday afternoon into early Saturday morning.
The National Weather Service in Wakefield has issued a Flood Watch for these areas, with rainfall totals expected to reach 2 to 4 inches in some locations, and rain rates up to 3 inches per hour. This intense rainfall could quickly lead to dangerous flash flooding, especially in regions already soaked by recent storms.
Flood Watch in Effect for Multiple Cities
The cities of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, and Newport News in Virginia, as well as Elizabeth City and Gates in North Carolina, are at high risk of flooding.
Residents in these areas are advised to stay alert for rapidly rising waters, particularly near rivers, streams, and flood-prone streets. The heavy rainfall could create hazardous driving conditions and cause localized flooding, which could disrupt daily activities.
Safety Precautions and Recommendations
Officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, especially when heavy rainfall and flooding occur. Some key safety tips include:
Stay informed: Monitor local weather updates to stay on top of changing conditions.
Charge devices: Ensure that phones and other emergency devices are fully charged in case of power outages or emergencies.
Avoid flooded areas: Never attempt to drive or walk through flooded streets. Rapidly rising water can be dangerous, and roadways may be impassable.
Move to higher ground: If floodwaters begin to affect homes or businesses, it’s important to quickly seek higher ground to ensure safety.
Potential for Further Advisories
The Flood Watch will remain in effect through early Saturday morning, but additional weather advisories may be issued depending on how the storm develops. Residents should remain alert and prepared for changes in weather conditions.
Heavy rain and the potential for flash flooding in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina could cause significant disruptions on Friday evening into Saturday morning.
Travelers and residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed, avoid flood-prone areas, and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Flood Watches remain in place, and conditions may continue to change as the storm progresses.
