A powerful storm is expected to roll through Suffolk and the Hampton Roads region Friday afternoon and early evening, bringing with it up to an inch of rain, high winds and the possibility of isolated tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service in Wakefield.

Meteorologist Cody Poche said to expect showers and possibly a thunderstorm or two Friday morning, but that will clear out before thunderstorms come through the area in the afternoon and evening.

“The main threats are for winds of more than 60 miles per hour and isolated tornadoes,” Poche said.

As of Thursday evening, the storm was going across the Deep South and working its way up the East Coast.

He said for residents to be prepared for any watches or warnings that might be issued by the National Weather Service or the Storm Prediction Center Friday. Highs Friday are expected to reach the upper 70s, with winds of 10 to 20 mph.

Dominion Energy said it is staffed up and ready to respond to possible power outages due to the storms Friday.
“The safety of our customers is always our top priority, especially when storms are in the forecast,” Dominion Energy said in a news release. “Dominion Energy customers in Virginia should prepare for the possibility of power outages beginning Friday night due to the predicted heavy rain and very high winds.”

Dominion asks that customers call 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357) to report a power outage, but for the fastest response, report any outages to the mobile-friendly site at www.dominionenergy.com/outages/report-and-check-outages.

It said people should be aware of downed power lines and assume they are energized and dangerous, and keep themselves and their pets away from them.