The risks for a serious widespread flooding event are rising for Virginia, West Virginia, and Eastern Kentucky. The risks also extend into North Carolna to the south and Southeast Ohio to the north. The Weather Prediction Center is forecating a moderate risk (40 to 70 percent chance) for flash flooding in Northwestern Virginia including the cities of Harrisonburg, Franklin, and Staunton. A 15 to 40 percent chance covers the rest of the state. The risks continue through the weekend as the Weather Prediction Center continues the widespread risk for Saturday and Sunday. I would not be surprised to see the risks elevated to a moderate risk. In their forecast discussion the Weather Prediction Center is indicating that rainfall rates could reach excessive levels.…