Isolated thunderstorms are expected across parts of Virginia this Thursday, especially in areas along and west of the I-95 corridor. While the storms won’t affect everyone, they could bring strong winds and brief downpours that may disrupt evening travel. If you’re planning to be outside or on the road, especially during the late afternoon or early evening, it’s best to stay weather-aware.
When and Where Storms Are Most Likely
The National Weather Service in Wakefield says that storms are expected to develop between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Thursday. The areas most at risk include Richmond, Farmville, and Petersburg — cities along or west of I-95.
These will be scattered thunderstorms, meaning some places might stay completely dry while others see short but intense weather. A few of these storms could bring wind gusts up to 55 mph, strong enough to knock down tree branches or damage light structures.
What You Might Experience
Here’s what to look out for during the storm window:
Gusty winds (up to 55 mph)
Sudden heavy rainfall
Low visibility on roads like I-95 and U.S. Route 460
Brief but strong thunderstorms
There is no major risk of hail or tornadoes, which is a relief. However, even a quick storm can cause delays and problems — especially if you’re caught on the road.
How to Stay Safe Before the Storms Hit
Even if the chance of severe weather is low, a few quick steps can help keep you safe and prevent damage:
Bring in or secure outdoor items like garden chairs, umbrellas, and bins.
Don’t park your vehicle under large trees.
Make sure your mobile phone is charged in case of power outages.
Watch local weather updates or alerts before heading out for your evening commute.
If you’re driving and it starts to pour, slow down and keep your headlights on. Reduced visibility can be risky, especially on highways where vehicles move at high speeds.
What Experts Are Saying
While confidence in widespread severe weather remains low, meteorologists are warning that even a few strong storms can cause issues. Emergency managers are closely watching the weather and will send out alerts if needed.
So if you’re living in or travelling around central Virginia on Thursday, particularly between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m., it’s a good idea to keep checking your local forecast.
Even if these storms don’t cover a wide area, they can still lead to downed trees, traffic delays, and brief power outages. A little bit of caution now can save you from big problems later in the day.
