A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for much of Virginia until this evening

Severe Thunderstorm Watches are in effect until 7-8PM for much of Virginia, including the Richmond and Petersburg metro areas. The Watch in north-central Virginia into D.C. does not expire until 8PM, whereas the rest of central and southern Virginia's Watch expires at 7PM. Strong to severe thunderstorms are developing mid-day Friday in central North Carolina, and are tracking Northeast at 20-25 mph toward south-central Virginia. In anticipation of those storms crossing over into the Commonwealth, these watches were issued shortly after Noon:

Threats from these severe storms will primarily include damaging wind gusts in the 60-70 mph range, and also large hail up to the size of 1.5"-2.0" diameter hail. The severe storms in North Carolina have already produced hail large enough to break windows and dent vehicles! In addition to these threats, any of the thunderstorms this afternoon will also produce frequent lightning and heavy downpours. We'll be providing updates on air and online as needed. Stay with CBS6, we'll keep you ahead of the storm!

Virginia has a Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms Friday

The same storm system that has produced widespread severe weather from the Plains through the Midwest into the Eastern US this week will bring central Virginia an opportunity for severe thunderstorms Friday afternoon and early evening. Once we reach the peak afternoon heating, clusters of strong to potentially severe thunderstorms should track through central Virginia. These storms will be capable of frequent lightning, damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 mph, heavy downpours, and large hail.

Intensity of the storms should heighten between 5-7PM, just as they are passing through the Richmond Metro Area. All thunderstorm activity will exit to the northeast by 9PM. After the locally heavy rainfall, overnight fog will likely develop in central Virginia for early Saturday morning. If you're planning to hit the road early Saturday morning for the long holiday weekend, please be prepared for that and use extra caution.

We will be providing frequent updates on air and online as necessary this afternoon and evening with the severe threat. Stay with CBS 6, we'll keep you ahead of the storm.