Hurricane Matthew Update 10-7-16 @ 9:30am

Team,

Please see the latest update from Jeff Orrock, Meteorologist in Charge with the National Weather Service in Wakefield”

“Please see the latest briefing attached [see here]. Forecast winds have been increased some across eastern VA (including all of Hampton Roads) and northeast NC due a slightly slower turn in track with Hurricane Matthew. While Matthew will remain well south of the area, north to north-northeast winds will increase Saturday night and remain strong through Sunday.  

The threat from heavy rain and flooding remains increased across southeast VA and northeast NC. Between 3 to 6 inches of rain is expected with some isolated higher totals possible in NC. This would result in flooding Saturday across portions of Hampton Roads and especially NC where flooding would be more extensive. The Cashie River at Windsor could reach MODERATE flood levels. 

Coastal flooding will increase on Sunday, especially in the lower Bay, rivers and along the coast. Moderate flooding is possible during the high tides Sunday into Monday.” 

Norfolk is under a flashflood watch until 2pm Sunday.

The hourly graph is included below showing a high probability of rain until noon or so Sunday.  Likewise, around 3” of rainfall is expected during this period.

Higher wind gusts still forecasted to occur Sunday morning reaching ~40mph.  With our ground saturated as they are, sporadic downed trees, downed lines and power outages should be anticipated.

Attached tide forecast now shows a high tide at Sewell’s Point reaching 5’ Sunday at 3:45pm.  Flooding on should be expected to occur around 3 hours before and after this peak time.

Expect an emergency declaration by Governor McAuliffe later today; however, it is not because Virginia is in dire straits.  Instead, our neighboring states to the south are and the Governor’s declaration allows state assets to be legally released to assist.

We have a conference call with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and National Weather Service at 11:30am.  We will share with you any update information. 

Thanks!

Jim

Director, Norfolk EOC
james.redick@norfolk.gov