Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of a tropical storm that could bring heavy rain, flooding, and strong winds to the state. The storm, known as Potential Tropical Cyclone Sixteen, is expected to affect Virginia from Friday, September 22 to Sunday, September 24, 2023.
The governor said the storm is unusual and difficult to forecast, and could pose a risk to large population centers and vulnerable communities. He urged Virginians and visitors to stay informed, make a plan, and have their emergency kits ready.
The state of emergency allows the state to mobilize resources and equipment needed for response and recovery efforts. The Virginia Emergency Support Team (VEST) is activated and coordinating with local, state, and federal officials. The Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC) is also monitoring the situation and preparing for the storm.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm is located about 300 miles east-southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, as of 5 a.m. EDT on Friday. It has maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and is moving north-northeast at 14 mph. The NHC said the storm could strengthen into a tropical storm later today or tonight.
The NHC issued a tropical storm warning for parts of the North Carolina coast, from Cape Lookout to Duck, including Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. A tropical storm watch is in effect for parts of the Virginia coast, from Duck to Chincoteague, including Chesapeake Bay south of New Point Comfort.
The NHC said the storm could produce 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated maximum amounts of 6 inches, across eastern North Carolina and southeast Virginia. This could cause flash flooding and river flooding in some areas. The storm could also generate coastal flooding, dangerous surf, and rip currents along the coast. In addition, the storm could spawn isolated tornadoes over eastern North Carolina and southeast Virginia.
The governor advised residents and visitors to follow the instructions of local officials and emergency personnel, and to avoid driving through flooded roads. He also reminded them to never use generators indoors or near windows or vents, as they can produce deadly carbon monoxide.
The governor said he will provide updates on the storm as it develops and impacts the state. He said he is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Virginians and visitors during this challenging time.
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