Special Weather Statement for Southwest Virginia
Residents across Craig, Giles, Montgomery, and Roanoke Counties, Virginia, should remain alert as a Special Weather Statement has been issued for a strong thunderstorm moving through the region.
While this storm is not currently severe, it is capable of producing wind gusts up to 30 MPH and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches). Brief periods of heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, and reduced visibility are also possible as the storm passes.
Expected Hazards
- 🌬️ Wind gusts up to 30 MPH
- 🧊 Pea-sized hail (0.25 inches)
- 🌧️ Heavy downpours
- ⚡ Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning
- 🚗 Reduced visibility for motorists
Areas Impacted
The Special Weather Statement includes:
- Craig County
- Giles County
- Montgomery County
- Roanoke County
Communities throughout southwest Virginia should monitor changing weather conditions as thunderstorms continue developing across the area.
Safety Tips
If thunderstorms approach:
- Move indoors immediately when thunder is heard.
- Secure lightweight outdoor furniture and decorations.
- Slow down while driving during heavy rain.
- Stay away from windows during lightning.
- Continue monitoring local weather updates for any upgraded warnings.
Stay Weather Aware
Strong thunderstorms can strengthen quickly, especially during the warmer months. Although this storm is expected to remain below severe warning criteria, localized impacts such as gusty winds, lightning, and brief heavy rainfall can still create hazardous travel conditions.
Radar Watch HQ will continue monitoring weather conditions across Virginia and provide updates should additional watches or warnings be issued.
Stay safe and keep an eye on the radar.
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Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Emergency Preparedness Picks
Whether you’re preparing for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or extended power outages, these five emergency essentials can help keep your household safer when severe weather strikes.
A portable power station provides reliable backup electricity during outages, allowing you to power phones, medical devices, laptops, lights, small appliances, and communication equipment without fuel.
Best for:
- Extended power outages
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Winter storms
- Wildfires
2. Flood Protection Barriers & Sandless Flood Bags
Flood barriers help divert or absorb water before it enters garages, doorways, and low-lying areas. They deploy quickly and can help reduce property damage during flash flooding.
Best for:
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Heavy rainfall
- River flooding
- Coastal flooding
3. Rechargeable LED Flashlights
Bright, dependable flashlights are essential when the power goes out. Rechargeable or solar-powered models provide long-lasting illumination for navigating safely indoors and outdoors.
Best for:
- Overnight power outages
- Emergency evacuations
- Storm damage inspections
Keep phones, tablets, weather radios, and USB-powered devices charged when the electrical grid is unavailable. A solar power bank offers an additional charging option during prolonged emergencies.
Best for:
- Communication during outages
- Emergency weather alerts
- Travel and evacuation
A NOAA Weather Radio delivers official weather alerts directly from the National Weather Service, even when cellular networks or internet service are unavailable. It remains one of the most dependable ways to receive life-saving warnings.
Best for:
- Tornado warnings
- Severe thunderstorm warnings
- Flash flood warnings
- Hurricane alerts
- Winter storm emergencies
Why Radar Watch HQ Recommends These Essentials
At Radar Watch HQ, preparedness is just as important as staying informed. These five emergency essentials can help you stay connected, protect your property, and safely navigate severe weather events. Having supplies ready before storms arrive allows you to respond quickly when warnings are issued and conditions begin to deteriorate.
