Accomack and Northampton counties face rain, gusty winds and hazardous boating conditions this weekend as the remnants of Hurricane Isaias move inland and interact with a frontal system.
The National Weather Service in Wakefield has placed its forecast area, including the Eastern Shore of Virginia, under a slight risk of severe weather on Sunday, October 11. The designation is level two on a five-level scale, with damaging winds and a few tornadoes possible.
Rain is expected to spread across the region Saturday evening and continue into Sunday night. Another round of showers and thunderstorms could develop Sunday afternoon ahead of an approaching cold front.
Forecasters have lowered the total precipitation forecast somewhat, with about 1 to 1.5 inches expected along the coast. Actual amounts will depend on the storm’s track and whether drier air is present in the area between rain events. The overall threat of freshwater flooding is low, although localized flooding could occur in poorly drained areas Sunday morning.
Coastal wind gusts of 25 to 35 mph are forecast, with the strongest general winds expected early Sunday. Stronger gusts could occur during severe thunderstorms.
Conditions will also deteriorate in the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic coastal waters. Bay waves could reach 3 to 5 feet Sunday, increasing to 5 to 7 feet near the mouth of the bay. Nearshore Atlantic seas could reach 6 to 9 feet.
A gale warning is forecast for the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday. Atlantic waters from Parramore Island to Cape Charles are under a gale warning from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Waters north of Parramore Island remain under a gale watch in Saturday’s early forecast, with improvement possible.
The weather service also expects high tides during Sunday’s high tide cycle. His discussion identifies major minor concerns related to tidal flooding in Hampton Roads, along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, and on Maryland’s lower eastern shore; it does not specifically predict minor tidal flooding for Accomack or Northampton.
Winds are expected to ease Sunday evening, although rough Atlantic seas could persist through Monday. Saturday morning’s advisory list includes marine alerts, but no land-based watches or warnings for Virginia. Residents should monitor further forecasts and any severe weather warnings issued on Sunday.
Gn usa
