Charlottesville, VA – Heavy rain and thunderstorms could bring dangerous flash flooding to much of Central and Northern Virginia from Saturday afternoon into the evening, threatening roads and low-lying neighborhoods as storms dump up to four inches of rain in some areas.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch is in effect from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday for Albemarle, Greene, Madison, Rappahannock, Orange, Culpeper, Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Southern Fauquier counties. Forecasters warn that rainfall rates could reach up to two inches in just 30 minutes, quickly overwhelming creeks, streams, and flood-prone roadways.
Residents in Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Culpeper, and surrounding communities should prepare for rapidly rising water, especially near low-water crossings and small bridges on Route 29, Route 3, and I-95. Power outages and road closures are possible as intense downpours sweep through the region. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roads and have an alternate route planned…