Norfolk gets one relatively quiet weather window Saturday before a much wetter Sunday takes over. Skies are mostly cloudy, temperatures are near 69 degrees early, and the afternoon high should reach about 74 with east winds strengthening through the day.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up, But Rain Holds
Rain chances remain low for most of Saturday, although a stray shower cannot be ruled out. East winds of 7 to 14 mph may gust as high as 23 mph, making waterfront walks and outdoor plans feel breezier than the thermometer suggests.
Saturday Night Turns Wet
Rain is expected to become likely between about 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. Saturday night, followed by additional showers. Overnight temperatures should stay mild near 68 degrees, while east winds increase to 13 to 17 mph with gusts up to 28 mph and rainfall totals of roughly one-half to three-quarters of an inch.
Sunday Brings Heavy Rain And Storm Risk
Sunday looks like the roughest part of the forecast, with showers during the morning and a chance of thunderstorms later in the day. The latest forecast from the National Weather Service in Wakefield calls for a high near 79, southeast winds gusting up to 30 mph and another 1 to 2 inches of rain possible.
The region is also under a Level 2 of 5 risk for severe weather Sunday. Strong wind gusts and a few tornadoes are possible as a line of storms and a cold front move through, so residents should keep weather alerts on and avoid being caught outside during the stormiest periods.
Hampton Roads Could See Tidal Flooding
Nuisance to minor tidal flooding is expected during Sunday's high-tide cycle in portions of Hampton Roads, the lower James River and the lower Chesapeake Bay. Poor-drainage and low-lying areas could also see localized flooding, while strong winds make conditions rough for boaters and may produce elevated water levels along exposed shorelines.
Sunny Turn Arrives Early Next Week
The pattern improves quickly after the weekend. Monday should be partly sunny with a high near 76, Tuesday is expected to be sunny and warmer near 81, and temperatures then ease back toward the low to mid-70s later in the week.
