Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Effect for Northwestern Virginia and North Carolina
A severe thunderstorm warning is active for several counties in Northwestern Virginia and parts of North Carolina, with wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail expected. Residents are urged to take precautions and report any storm damage to authorities.
A severe thunderstorm warning currently remains in place for several areas across Northwestern Virginia and parts of North Carolina, particularly affecting Smyth, Tazewell, Western Bland, Northwestern Wythe, and Southwestern Mercer counties. As of 1:51 PM EDT, radar indicates strong storms forming a line from Gary moving east at around 45 miles per hour. These storms are producing significant wind gusts of up to 70 mph and hail reported to be the size of ping pong balls.
The National Weather Service warns that outdoor individuals, including pets, are at risk of injury due to potential hail and high winds. The storms are expected to cause extensive damage, including to roofs, vehicles, and trees. Areas such as Bluefield, Richlands, and Tazewell will likely face the brunt of this storm.
Precautionary measures are strongly advised. Residents should relocate to interior rooms on the lowest floors of sturdy buildings and avoid windows when severe weather strikes. The National Weather Service encourages people to report any hail size or wind damage. They can reach out via a toll-free number, or even share pictures on their social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter.
In addition, a separate severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of North Carolina until 6 PM EDT. This watch includes a total of six counties in central North Carolina, such as Surry and Wilkes, and encompasses thirteen counties in Southwest Virginia and three in Southeast West Virginia. As the weather develops, staying informed through reliable updates is crucial for the safety of everyone in these regions.
Severe thunderstorms are affecting various areas in Northwestern Virginia and North Carolina, with significant wind gusts and hail reported. The National Weather Service has issued warnings and watches for multiple counties urging residents to take shelter. Prompt reporting of storm damage is encouraged to aid in safety measures and ensure proper response efforts.
Original Source: www.bdtonline.com
