Virginia Beach, VA – Residents across coastal Virginia are starting the day under calm but chilly conditions, with clear skies and cold air settling over Virginia Beach early Wednesday. While the morning commute remains quiet, forecasters warn the break in the weather will be short-lived as a developing system brings rain, gusty winds, and potential travel disruptions by the end of the week.
According to the National Weather Service, today’s conditions reflect a brief pause between systems before a more active pattern arrives.
Cold and Calm Start to the Day
Early temperatures along the coast hover in the lower 30s to upper 30s, creating a crisp start for commuters. Skies remain mostly clear through mid-morning, but clouds steadily increase as the day progresses.
By afternoon, highs climb to around 53 degrees, with southwest winds strengthening, particularly near the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic shoreline. While no rain is expected today, the growing breeze will make outdoor conditions feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
Cloudy Night Ahead With Milder Temperatures
Tonight remains mostly cloudy as temperatures dip to around 42 degrees. Winds ease slightly overnight, but cloud cover increases ahead of the next weather system approaching from the west.
Dry conditions hold through most of the night, allowing for normal travel and outdoor activity across the region.
Thursday Brings Milder Air and Early Rain Chances
Thursday marks the transition day as warmer air moves in ahead of the storm. Afternoon highs reach near 56 degrees, making it one of the milder days of the week.
By late afternoon and evening, spotty rain showers may begin to develop. While rainfall totals remain light initially, roads could become slick after sunset, especially along Route 58, Interstate 264, and other heavily traveled corridors.
Meteorologists note that Thursday evening conditions may deteriorate gradually rather than abruptly, giving drivers time to adjust travel plans.
Stormy Turn Late Thursday Night Into Friday
Rain becomes more widespread late Thursday night and continues into Friday morning, with periods of moderate to heavy showers possible. A few embedded thunderstorms cannot be ruled out, particularly near the coast.
Winds increase quickly, with gusts exceeding 30 mph along the shoreline and near bridges, tunnels, and open roadways. These conditions could lead to:
- Reduced visibility during heavy rain
- Ponding of water on roads
- Difficult driving for high-profile vehicles
- Slower travel during the Friday morning commute
Breezy and Wet Conditions Continue Friday
Friday remains unsettled, with rain tapering off gradually through the day. Temperatures peak near 59 degrees, but strong winds keep conditions feeling cooler.
Drivers heading toward coastal routes, tunnels, and elevated roadways should allow extra travel time and remain alert for sudden wind gusts and changing road conditions.
Clearing Skies and Cooler Weekend Ahead
By Friday night, skies clear as colder air moves back into the region. Overnight lows fall into the mid-30s, signaling a return to more seasonable December temperatures.
The weekend brings calmer weather:
- Saturday: Sunny and cooler, with highs around 49 degrees
- Sunday: Dry and mild, with highs near 54 degrees
Seasonal Shift Becoming More Noticeable
Meteorologists say this weather pattern reflects an early winter transition, marked by sharp temperature swings and wind-driven rain systems. While snow is not expected locally, the changing conditions are a reminder that winter travel hazards can arrive even without frozen precipitation as Christmas travel plans approach.
Five-Day Virginia Beach Forecast
- Today: Increasing clouds, breezy, high 53°
- Thursday: Partly sunny, chance of rain late, high 56°
- Friday: Rain and strong winds, high 59°
- Saturday: Sunny and cooler, high 49°
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 54°
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts, especially if traveling late Thursday or early Friday.
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