Tropical storm warning still in effect for Western Tidewater

Staff report

WAKEFIELD

As of 11 a.m., National Hurricane Center states that the eye of Dorian is moving over the Atlantic Ocean east of the North Carolina coast with maximum sustained winds of 90 mph, placing the storm at Category 1, and it’s moving northeast at 17 mph. The center is forecast to move away from Carolina over the next several hours.

At the same time, the National Weather Service in Wakefield states that a tropical storm warning remains in effect for Franklin, Southampton County and the rest of Western Tidewater as as the Greater Hampton Roads region. The latest forecast calls for below tropical storm force winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. There is also a potential for winds 39 to 57 mph. Residents are advised to finish protecting property as quickly as possible. As yet, the situation is reportedly unfavorable for tornadoes.

The NSW also states that, locally, there’s potential for moderate flooding rain. Elsewhere, life-threatening storm surge and dangerous winds are expected to continue along parts of the North Carolina coast, southeast Virginia and portions of Southern Chesapeake Bay. Water levels could rise in advance of strong winds, and residents in the aforementioned areas should follow advice given by local emergency officials.