Virginia – A calm and cool start settles over coastal Virginia early Sunday, but changing conditions are on the way as a breezier and milder weather pattern builds heading into the final days of the year. While the morning begins quietly, clouds and periodic rain will gradually return, creating shifting travel conditions across the Hampton Roads region.
Calm Morning Gives Way to Clouds and Rain Chances
Early Sunday brings dry roads, clear skies, and chilly air, especially in neighborhoods closer to the water. That brief calm fades later tonight as cloud cover increases from west to east.
According to the National Weather Service, rain is expected to develop late tonight into early morning hours. Rainfall amounts should remain light overall, but damp pavement could create slick conditions for drivers along I-64, I-264, and major surface streets in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and surrounding cities.
Saturday Brings Sunshine but Strong Coastal Winds
Conditions improve quickly by Saturday morning. Skies clear to mostly sunny, allowing temperatures to rebound into the upper 40s, making daytime travel more comfortable.
However, a steady northeast breeze develops during the afternoon. Wind gusts may reach around 25 mph, particularly near exposed coastal areas and locations such as Naval Air Station Oceana. Drivers in high-profile vehicles should remain cautious, especially on open roadways and bridges.
Saturday night remains dry and seasonable, offering a brief break before another weather shift arrives.
Sunday Turns Milder as Clouds Increase
By Sunday, clouds thicken once again across coastal Virginia. Afternoon temperatures climb into the low to mid-50s, keeping conditions mild for late December.
Most of the day stays dry, but increasing cloud cover serves as an early signal of another approaching system. Outdoor plans should remain manageable, though skies will look more unsettled by evening.
Rain and Wind Return Monday
Rain chances rise again Monday as the next system moves through the region. Breezy conditions are expected to return by afternoon, with gusty winds potentially impacting travel.
Motorists should be especially cautious on bridges and tunnels, including the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, where strong winds and wet pavement may reduce visibility and slow traffic during heavier showers.
Cooler Air and Frost Risk Follow
Behind Monday’s system, colder air filters back into the region Monday night. Overnight temperatures dip into the low 30s, raising the possibility of patchy frost early Tuesday morning.
While no snow or ice accumulation is expected, lingering moisture on roads could briefly freeze in colder spots. Drivers should stay alert during early morning commutes.
New Year’s Week 2026 Starts Quieter and Cooler
As New Year’s week begins, the overall weather pattern calms down. Sunshine returns Tuesday and Wednesday, accompanied by crisp mornings and seasonable afternoons. The shift brings a more traditional winter feel compared to the milder conditions seen earlier.
Five-Day Outlook for Virginia Beach, VA
- Today: Increasing clouds, high near 46°F
- Saturday: Mostly sunny and breezy, high near 49°F
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy and mild, high near 54°F
- Monday: Rain likely and breezy, high near 66°F
- Tuesday: Sunny and cooler, high near 43°F
What This Means for Residents
Drivers should prepare for changing road conditions, especially during late-night and early-morning hours when rain and wind combine. While winter storms are not expected, fluctuating temperatures and gusty winds may still affect travel and outdoor plans.
Are you traveling this weekend or staying close to home? Share what conditions look like in your area in the comments below.
