A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for nearly all of Virginia

A new Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for all of central Virginia until 8 PM, extending past this morning's watch for southwest Virginia (which remains in effect until 5 PM). Threats from any severe storms this afternoon and early evening will include damaging wind gusts to 70 mph, large hail the size of ping pong balls, and frequent lightning.

The severe threat in Virginia is part of a broad system that will likely produce a significant severe outbreak, particularly in the nation's heartland. Here is the updated severe risk map for the eastern U.S., with a continued rare High Risk over parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas.

We will be closely monitoring our severe threat this afternoon and evening. Stay with CBS 6, we'll keep you ahead of the storm.