Richmond, Va. – Isolated thunderstorms may flare up across Virginia on Thursday, especially along and west of I-95, raising concerns for damaging wind gusts during the evening commute. Storms are most likely to develop between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m., with a few capable of producing winds up to 55 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, storm coverage should remain scattered, but brief strong cells cannot be ruled out. While hail and tornadoes are not expected, the main concern is localized wind damage, particularly in cities such as Richmond, Farmville, and Petersburg.
Drivers on I-95 and U.S. Route 460 may encounter sudden downpours and reduced visibility if storms track eastward. Emergency managers urge residents to secure outdoor furniture and avoid parking vehicles under large trees ahead of the potential gusts…