CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A powerful wind event is expected to impact large portions of Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and southeast Ohio beginning early Monday, with forecasters warning of hazardous travel conditions, downed trees, and potential power outages through Tuesday.
The National Weather Service has issued multiple Wind Advisories and High Wind Warnings for the region, covering communities including Blacksburg, Wytheville, Radford, Bedford, Bluefield, Lewisburg, Rocky Mount, Pulaski, Amherst, and portions of the Greenbrier Valley. Additional advisories extend across central and southern West Virginia, northeast Kentucky, and southeast Ohio, including Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Athens, Marietta, and Gallipolis.
Strong Winds Expected Through Tuesday
From 7 a.m. Monday through noon Tuesday, parts of southwest and west-central Virginia, northwest North Carolina, and southeast West Virginia will see:
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Sustained west winds of 15–25 mph
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Gusts up to 50 mph
At higher elevations, conditions will be more severe under a High Wind Warning, where:
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Sustained winds may reach 30–40 mph
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Gusts could climb to 60 mph
Meanwhile, a separate Wind Advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday across much of West Virginia, northeast Kentucky, and southeast Ohio, with gusts again expected to reach up to 50 mph.
Potential Impacts
Forecasters say the greatest risks include:
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Downed tree limbs and power lines
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Scattered to widespread power outages
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Hazardous travel for high-profile vehicles
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Flying or shifting unsecured outdoor objects
Travel may be especially dangerous in exposed areas and along mountain ridges.
Safety & Preparedness Guidance
Officials urge residents to:
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Secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and trash bins
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Use extra caution when driving in open areas or on bridges
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Avoid higher elevations during peak wind periods
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Stay indoors and away from windows during strong gusts
Those in high wind warning zones are advised to remain on lower floors of their homes and to watch for falling debris.
Residents are encouraged to monitor their local forecasts and follow updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency agencies.
For additional regional weather information, visit the National Weather Service’s Charleston office website or follow their social media updates.
