In Hampton Roads, a significant rainfall brought much-needed moisture this past weekend, ending a drought-like period. However, the rain also led to tidal flooding in certain areas during high tide.
On Thursday and Friday, the weather team issued “Weather Alert Days” due to forecasts of heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding along the coast. After nearly two months without a substantial downpour, the region was set to receive a good soaking.
As a low-pressure system moved in, moderate to heavy rainfall was expected, posing an increased risk of coastal flooding in areas like Tidewater, the Eastern Shore, and the Outer Banks in Virginia and North Carolina.
Local updates included the reopening of Highway NC12 by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. However, the Weather Alert Day concluded on Friday, but a Coastal Flood Advisory remained in effect for several areas including Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake until Saturday afternoon.
Significant flooding was reported on streets in Norfolk, notably at Hampton Boulevard and Magnolia Avenue, where several vehicles struggled to navigate through the water. Reports also indicated stalled cars on Llewellyn Avenue, a location known for flooding issues, especially by the Haven Creek Boat Ramp.
To prepare for the incoming weather, the City of Norfolk opened a downtown garage for residents to park vehicles away from flood-prone areas. Schools in Dare and Currituck Counties switched to remote learning on Friday due to the adverse weather conditions.
Warnings were issued for potential hazards along N.C. Highway 12, urging travelers to exercise caution and avoid certain beach areas where debris could be present.
The National Weather Service had also declared a Coastal Flood Warning for Friday, with rainfall totals anticipated to be between 1 to 2 inches. Though flash flooding concerns remained low, residents were advised of possible road closures and to plan for longer commute times due to the wet conditions.
As the storm passed, officials urged everyone to remain vigilant about low-lying areas that could face property damage or erosion along the shoreline. Updates will continue as the weather develops.
