Strong Storms Forecast to Hit Virginia on Monday

Weather Alert Day issued as severe thunderstorms and possible tornadoes are expected across the region.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 11:36am

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The ABC13 Weather Team has issued a Weather Alert Day for Monday as strong storms are forecast to move across Virginia. The storms are expected to form into a line and track from west to east, bringing the potential for severe thunderstorms with damaging winds, hail, and even isolated tornadoes.

Why it matters

Spring severe weather can pose a significant threat to communities, with the possibility of power outages, property damage, and even injuries or loss of life. Issuing a Weather Alert Day allows residents to prepare and stay vigilant during the storm threat.

The details

The storms are expected to develop late Monday morning and continue through the afternoon hours. Locations along the I-81 corridor, including Roanoke, Blacksburg, and Lexington, will likely see the storms first, before the line moves eastward into areas like Martinsville, Bedford, Lynchburg, and Danville. While all locations are expected to see rain and thunderstorms, not every area will experience severe weather. Tornado warnings may be issued if any storms within the line are able to isolate and develop rotation.

  • The severe weather window is expected to be from late morning through the afternoon on Monday, March 17, 2026.
  • Tornado warnings, if issued, would likely come at around lunchtime or in the early afternoon hours on Monday.

The players

ABC13 Weather Team

The meteorologists at the local ABC13 news station who are responsible for monitoring the weather and issuing alerts and warnings.

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What they’re saying

“No, I can not predict which county a Tornado Warning might be issued. That will be a 'nowcast' after the storms form Monday.”

— George Flickinger, Meteorologist

What’s next

Residents should monitor the weather forecast closely on Monday and be prepared to take shelter if any severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued for their area.

The takeaway

Spring severe weather can be unpredictable, but issuing a Weather Alert Day allows communities to prepare and stay vigilant. While not every location will see the worst of the storms, it's important for all residents to have a plan in place to stay safe during potentially dangerous weather conditions.