The National Weather Service says remnants of Hurricane Ida could cause severe storms in Virginia on Wednesday.
Since making landfall Sunday, Ida has dumped more than 10 inches of rain, caused flash floods and wind gusts of 150 mph. Ida, which made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane, also caused massive power outages in the Central Gulf Coast.
The remnants of Ida are steadily approaching the east coast, bringing the potential for heavy rain, gusty winds and severe thunderstorms, according to forecasters. A few tornadoes cannot be ruled out, as well.
“We’re expecting severe weather across central Virginia and a good portion of Southern Virginia is under the gun as well,” NWS Meteorologist Ryan Rogers said
Heavy rainfall will impact the region Wednesday into Wednesday night. The highest rainfall totals will likely be across north and northwest portions of Virginia. Forecasters estimated 1 inch locally although higher amounts are possible.
“We could get some gusty winds to the south as well, but they’re not expected to be the same quality as a tropical storm or tropical depression,” Rogers said.
The Hampton Roads area isn’t likely to feel as heavy an impact as the metro Richmond area, but Rogers says severe storms and flash flooding are still possible.
After a few days of rain, residents can anticipate cooler and drier weather on the weekend. Until then Rodgers reminds residents to keep track of the daily forecast and severe weather alerts during the week as the storm approaches.
Lyndon German, frederick.german@virginiamedia.com
