First Alert Weather Day near the bay: coastal flooding today

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - The remnants of Ian will be slow to depart for the start of the work week. As low pressure sits off the coast of Virginia, strong winds and coastal flooding will be threats for the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula, which is why we’re calling Today a First Alert Weather Day.

Today is going to be a remarkable weather day for central and eastern Virginia with high temperatures today and tomorrow having a good chance to set records for being the COOLEST EVER for daytime highs on October 3rd and 4th.

Ian’s remnants have helped form an area of low pressure off the coast. This storm will keep a strong northerly wind in place today and tomorrow. In combination with strong and cool areas of high-pressure over the Northeast, this will lock in clouds, occasional rain and mist, and COLD FOR OCTOBER weather!

The impact will be worse on the eastern shore and in Hampton roads where wind and coastal flooding have caused some neighborhoods to be voluntarily evacuated!

Although this will bring a strong northeast wind. I’m not calling it a nor’easter. The storm won’t move up the coast to in new England. And it’s not tapping into any polar air. But I’m not going to fight with you if you do Stay dry and warm, the weather will start to improve on Wednesday!

A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect for most of southeastern Virginia through 8pm tomorrow, and this includes Lancaster and Middlesex counties in the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula. The peak water levels are expected to be this afternoon and evening’s high tide cycle.

The National Weather Service says “severe flooding is possible” with water 1 to 3 feet above ground level during high tide cycles. If your car is parked near the water, it is a good idea to move it before the water rises.

A Coastal Flood Advisory covers Westmoreland and Northumberland counties where the flooding won’t be as severe with water up to 1 foot above ground.

Drizzle and spotty light rain will continue on and off throughout Monday and Tuesday across much of central Virginia. Heavier rain potential along the bay and toward the ocean.

Use caution near the bay on Monday and Tuesday and check back with NBC12 for updates.

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