NORFOLK, Va. — With severe weather expected to move through the Commonwealth Monday, officials with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) said they're prepared.
The forecast predicts a line of strong-to-severe storms moving from west to east, bringing threats of damaging and gusty winds, intense rainfall that could cause flooding, large hail and possible brief tornadoes. Storms for Hampton Roads and northeast North Carolina are most likely after 6 p.m. and should clear the coast by midnight.
Much of the northern, central and western parts of Virginia is under a Tornado Watch, meaning severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Because of that, VDOT is encouraging people to limit their travel.
"This severe weather system may cause downed trees, power lines and other debris, as well as flooding that will make roadways extremely hazardous or impassable," VDOT wrote in a news release.
Officials are encouraging people to stay away from downed wires and not approach or touch trees or limbs entangled with wires. VDOT also shared the following tips for using caution while driving:
- Obey all “road closed” signs.
- Turn around, don’t drown. The main causes of flood-related deaths happen when people drive into or walk in, or near flood waters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Six inches of flood water can knock an adult off their feet and 12 inches can move most cars. 18-24 inches can carry away most large SUVs, vans, and trucks.
- Be alert to debris, downed trees, and power lines.
- Move over for emergency crews operating in or near roadways.
- Be alert to High Wind Advisories, especially on bridges or taller structures. High-profile vehicles such as tractor-trailers, SUVs, or box trucks are especially vulnerable and shouldn't cross a bridge when an advisory is posted.
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