Weather

Coastal Flooding Threatens Virginia Beach as Gusty Winds Push Tides Inland

BySaluda Standard Sentinel Team October 14, 2025October 14, 2025

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The National Weather Service in Wakefield has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory in effect through 7 p.m. Tuesday, warning that gusty onshore winds and high tides could lead to minor flooding across Hampton Roads, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Portsmouth.

Gusty Winds and High Tides Impact Shorelines

According to the Country Herald Weather Center, wind gusts of up to 30 mph are driving bay water inland, flooding coastal roads, parking lots, and low-lying neighborhoods near Back Bay and Lynnhaven Inlet.

Officials urge residents to avoid driving through flooded streets, secure outdoor furniture, and monitor weather alerts as tides peak Tuesday afternoon. Water levels may rise as much as one foot above normal, particularly during the high tide cycle.

Improving Conditions by Wednesday

Meteorologists say patchy drizzle and light rain will linger through early afternoon before winds shift north, ushering in cooler and drier air.
“Conditions will improve rapidly overnight,” forecasters said, noting that skies will clear by Wednesday morning with highs near 65°F.

By midweek, a high-pressure system will settle over coastal Virginia, bringing calm winds, low humidity, and bright fall sunshine through the weekend.

Travel Caution for Coastal Routes

Drivers along I-64 and U.S. 58 are urged to remain alert for standing water near the Lesner Bridge and Shore Drive, two areas prone to tidal flooding.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) recommends planning alternate routes until water levels subside.

Five-Day Virginia Beach Forecast

Tuesday: 66°/61° – Light rain early, breezy; coastal flooding risk.
Wednesday: 65°/53° – Sunny and dry; winds easing.
Thursday: 63°/50° – Clear and cool.
Friday: 63°/50° – Mostly sunny; comfortable fall day.
Saturday: 71°/54° – Milder weekend weather.

Forecasters say the late-week stretch will feature ideal outdoor conditions, perfect for beach walks, fall festivals, and scenic coastal drives once tides recede.

For ongoing weather updates and community alerts, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.

Saluda Standard Sentinel Team

The Saluda Standard-Sentinel Team represents the collective voice of our newsroom — covering urgent updates, official notices, and stories compiled by multiple reporters. Rooted in the South and committed to trusted local journalism, our team brings timely, community-first reporting to readers across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia.