Mapped: Virginia's severe weather threats

Richmond averaged 11 severe storm watches per year over the past two decades, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

• That includes watches for thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Why it matters: We've got some severe weather in the forecast due to Tropical Storm Debby .

• Plus, extreme weather is the leading cause of power outages in Virginia.

State of play: In general, the average number of watches from 2004-2023 was significantly higher in parts of NoVa than in Southwest Virginia.

• NoVa counties including Fairfax, Loudoun, Stafford and Spotsylvania had the highest average at 14.
• SW counties like Wythe, Bath and Pulaski had the lowest average at 6.

The intrigue: In total, Richmond and Henrico saw 222 severe weather watches between 2004-2023.

• Chesterfield had 224 and Hanover 232.

The bottom line: Consider kicking in for a generator for your pals in Hanover.