Virginia Beach, Virginia.Heavy rainfall could result in severe flooding throughout the night, according to a Flood Watch issued by the National Weather Service for parts of northeast North Carolina and southeast Virginia starting at 2:00 p.m. Thursday. The Country Herald states that rainfall totals of two to four inches are anticipated, with some localities perhaps seeing amounts as high as four inches.
Areas Under the Flood Watch
Major cities in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Newport News, and Hampton, along with neighboring counties, are included in the watch. The counties of Camden, Currituck, Hertford, and Pasquotank in North Carolina are also on notice.
Low-lying neighborhoods, areas with poor drainage, and those close to creeks, streams, and underpasses—where water can rise swiftly during intense downpours—are the most likely to experience flooding.
Potential Impacts and Safety Guidance
Authorities warn that during periods of the most severe rainfall, flash floods can occur quickly, rendering some roads unusable in a matter of minutes. Residents are asked to:
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways.
- Move vehicles to higher ground before storms arrive.
- Keep mobile devices fully charged in case of power outages.
The Flood Watch will be in force until late Thursday evening, and if the rain persists until early Friday, more advisories may be issued.
Staying Prepared
Throughout the day, meteorologists advise keeping a careful eye on local forecasts, particularly in the late afternoon and evening when the most precipitation is anticipated. If water levels start to increase, residents in flood-prone areas should be prepared to move quickly.
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