Flash flooding from heavy rainfall is the most significant threat to Virginia as Tropical Storm Debby moves north, according to the National Hurricane Center.
A flash flood warning is in effect through Friday evening in much of the central, south central and southeast portions of Virginia, including in Richmond and the surrounding counties. The heaviest rainfall is expected to be from Interstate 95 west to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
“We’re always concerned about urban areas, where it takes less rainfall to result in flash flooding,” said Ryan Rogers, meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Wakefield. “We also have some issues with strong southeasterly winds near the coast that could lead to some coastal flooding in and around the Chesapeake Bay. So, that is a threat, certainly confined more to the coastal folks, but we’ve got quite a few threats to worry about.”
A tornado watch has been issued for parts of Central Virginia and the Tidewater area until 8 p.m. Thursday.
As far as preparations, Rogers said it’s a good idea to have multiple ways to receive tornado and flash flood warnings. And, he said, don’t drive through any flooded roads, especially if the water is moving.
Wakefield covers the Piedmont region, including Farmville and Lunenburg, and Louisa, Mecklenburg and Prince Edward counties.
Ahead of the storm, the Virginia Department of Transportation said in a news release, that crews began inspecting and clearing drains, readying trucks and equipment, and coordinating debris and tree removal crews.
