A shocking video shows floodwaters rushing through a town in southwest Virginia, completely covering streets and buildings. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for several areas, including Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Campbell Counties, and the city of Lynchburg.
Heavy Rainfall Causes Dangerous Flooding
At 5:22 p.m. EST, the NWS reported heavy rain across the affected areas. So far, between 1.5 and 2 inches of rain have fallen, with more expected at a rate of up to 1 inch per hour. The already saturated ground and swollen rivers are worsening the situation, causing flash floods.
Hurley, a small community in Buchanan County near West Virginia and Kentucky, has been hit the hardest. A disturbing video posted online by Weather Monitors shows a woman recording the flood from her porch. Although her porch is wet but not underwater, the streets around her are completely submerged.
As she moves the camera, she points to a local Dollar General store, barely visible under the murky water. Across the street, a bank is half-submerged, with floodwaters reaching nearly 7 feet high. Her voice shakes as she describes the devastating scene.
More Areas Under Flood Alerts
The NWS has warned that areas near rivers and streams are at the highest risk. Flood warnings are also in effect in Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and West Virginia. In Virginia, the alerts are expected to last until at least 11:30 p.m. Saturday but could be extended if conditions worsen.
Residents are encouraged to report flooding by calling 866-215-4324 or reaching out on the National Weather Service Blacksburg Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) accounts.
High Winds and More Rain Expected
In addition to the flooding, a high wind warning is in place for parts of eastern Tennessee until noon on Sunday. Winds are expected to range from 20 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 70 mph.
Storm Team 11 Forecast warns that the heavy rain may continue into Sunday, with a slight to moderate risk of additional flooding. Some areas could see rain through Monday. Temperatures will drop from the high 50s and low 60s into the 30s and 40s. By Sunday afternoon, some rain may turn into snow, with more winter weather expected later in the week.
Authorities Urge Residents to Stay Safe
The NWS has reminded residents to be extra cautious at night when it is harder to see flooding dangers. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin issued a warning on Facebook, urging people to stay alert.
“Heavy rain is hitting Virginia, with flash floods already reported in SWVA. Stay safe—don’t fight the water, just leave and call for help. First responders, rescue crews, law enforcement, VDOT, and the VA National Guard are deployed. Your safety is our top priority,” Youngkin wrote.
Residents should follow official updates and evacuate if necessary to avoid life-threatening situations.
