First Alert Weather Day: Tornado warnings expire

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Nicole’s rain arrived overnight, and today was a First Alert Weather Day for a chance of tornadoes.

We expect three rounds of rain today. One during the morning commute, a batch midday, and one after sunset. The midday batch produced numerous tornado warnings, all of which expired just after 3 p.m.

Central Virginia needs rain and lots of it, so although we are calling it a First Alert Weather Day, the rain could end up being largely beneficial. 1″-2″ rain totals are possible. The heaviest rain is likely in Western VA with around 1″ in RVA, lesser amounts near the Bay. Heavy rain could cause some localized flooding, especially in poor drainage areas.

All of central Virginia has been upgraded to a slight risk from the Storm Prediction Center (counties in yellow) which is a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather threat category. We will be watching for damaging wind gusts and an isolated tornado possible. Main time for severe weather looks to be 11am-3pm.

*6:20am UPDATE: Tornado Watch in Effect*

Here’s what the radar might look like midday:

Have ways to get a warning - like the NBC12 First Alert Weather app.

Some GOOD NEWS for Saturday (Richmond Marathon Day) as rain moves out before Saturday’s sunrise. Be ready for a cool, dry breeze to build Saturday after a warm and humid (for November) start to the day. Be careful of wet roads and puddles!

We’ll keep you updated with impacts to central VA Friday as we watch Nicole’s track!

NBC12 First Alert Weather App

Check out how to use the NBC12 First Alert Weather app (note: this was recorded in early September):

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