Tornado watch issued for Hampton Roads, North Carolina as Helene moves across southern U.S.

A tornado watch has been issued for Hampton Roads and North Carolina as Hurricane Helene, now downgraded to a tropical storm, makes its way across the southern United States.

Tornadoes and damaging wind gusts are possible until 6 p.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

Scattered thunderstorms could produce tornadoes mid-morning through the early evening, according to the Wakefield center’s 5 a.m briefing. Damaging wind gusts of 60 mph are also possible.

Minor to moderate tidal flooding is expected with high tide this evening and tonight. Coastal flood warnings are in effect along the Potomac and upper Rappahannock rivers. Minor flooding is possible along the York and James rivers, the Back
Bay area of Virginia Beach Beach, and along the Albemarle Sound.

Urban flooding is also possible, forecasters warn.

A tornado watch is issued when a tornado is possible, and those in affected areas should be prepared to act quickly if a warning is issued. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado is happening or about to open. People in affected areas should take immediate action and seek shelter.

Though the storm is expected to move west toward Appalachia, meteorologist Allison Mitchell said effects can be expected beyond its path. Hampton Roads cities will likely receive 1 inch of rain Friday, and cities closer to Richmond will receive about 2 inches. Saturday will remain largely dry, but Mitchell said the chance of rain will return Sunday. A moderate risk of heavy rainfall and flooding remains across western Virginia.

Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida overnight as a massive Category 4 storm, leaving more than 1.2 million homes and businesses without power across the state. At least three storm-related deaths have been reported. As of 5 a.m., Helene was downgraded to a tropical storm, with much of the Atlanta area under a flash flood emergency .

TRACKING MAP: Where and when will Hurricane Helene hit Florida?

High rip-current risks will remain into the weekend.

In North Carolina, major impacts from Helene are expected to stay well to the west of the Outer Banks.

Virginia and North Carolina under state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Helene

The NWS Newport/Morehead City forecast office on Thursday afternoon said a few weak tornadoes are possible through Friday, along with minor coastal flooding and gusty winds, especially over the waters of Cape Hatteras.

An elevated risk of rip currents will continue for the entire Outer Banks, likely through the weekend, the NWS said.

Eliza Noe, eliza.noe@virginiamedia.com