VIRGINIA — Parts of Virginia are at risk for severe thunderstorms Tuesday as a cold front moves across the Mid-Atlantic, according to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of eastern Virginia under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather through early Wednesday morning. Other areas of the state remain under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5), where isolated severe thunderstorms are possible.
Forecasters say the primary threat across Virginia will be damaging straight-line winds, although a brief tornado cannot be ruled out.
Thunderstorms are expected to develop from late morning into the afternoon as temperatures rise into the 80s and humid conditions create an unstable atmosphere. Storms are forecast to organize into a line along and ahead of an approaching cold front.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, the combination of strong wind shear and unstable air will support severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts. While wind damage is expected to be the main hazard, localized conditions could also allow for a brief tornado to develop.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware throughout the day and be prepared to take shelter if severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued.
