News Flash

March 1, 2018 - Thanks to a nor'easter that is moving into the area the National Weather Service at Wakefield has issued a coastal flood watch for Hampton Roads from Friday through Sunday afternoon. The flood watch means that conditions favorable for flooding are expected. 

According to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and National Weather Service, winds will be coming from offshore and this area will experience a prolonged period of strong wind - with sustained winds of 24-30 mph and gusts up to 45 mph - through Friday morning.

During the strongest wind periods, no precipitation is anticipated.  "By Saturday morning, winds will have turned more northerly and will begin to dissipate.  Additional weakening will be expected on Sunday with conditions turning to “breezy.”

The weather service also said tide projections have fallen slightly.  Significant below normal tides will occur Friday and Friday night, with levels returning to normal tides on Saturday. "Risk of tidal flooding is projected by the NWS to be minor to low-moderate, with levels at Sewell’s Point during high tide expected to be around 5.5 feet.  However, heightened waves along the immediate shoreline should last 2-3 days, beginning to ease off Monday into Tuesday, but with wave action continuing through that period." Hampton's Emergency Management Office said risks for the city include:

• Threat of downed trees and power lines due to sustained winds of 24-30 mph and heavy wind gusts up to 45 mph, with the most at risk areas being those closest to the shoreline
• Risk of significant beach and dune erosion, mostly impacting those areas immediately adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean, such as Grandview. Waves for our area are projected to be 5-6 feet
• Minor to moderate tidal flooding that would impact low lying areas

Hampton's public works, police and fire departments are all monitoring the situation and prepared to act as needed. The Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor the weather and provide news updates. Go online for more information on flooding and flood safety.