Staunton has been under a heat advisory for four consecutive days which continues on Saturday, July 4. So far, we haven’t had the usual afternoon thunderstorms that come with a hot summer day, but that is forecast to change this afternoon.
It looks like the summer thunderstorms are arriving just in time for the family barbecue between 3-4 p.m. and possibly again into the evening just in time for fireworks, according to the National Weather Service.
There is an Enhanced Risk (level 3/5) of severe thunderstorms in Staunton, according to the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center. A few of these storms could contain wind gusts to 70 mph, resulting in significant damage especially east of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
A prolonged, dangerous heat wave will persist through the Fourth of July weekend. Numerous temperature records are expected. The hottest temperature ever recorded in Staunton on July 4 was 98 degrees, set on July 4, 1919, according to Extreme Weather Watch. National Weather Service forecast for July 4, 2026, in Staunton is a high of 97 degrees.
Staunton remains under a heat advisory 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 4. Extreme heat warnings are also in effect until 8 p.m. into some portions of the Shenandoah Valley.
More: Guide to Staunton’s Happy Birthday America July 4 celebration
National Weather Service forecast for Fourth of July in Staunton
Day: Showers and thunderstorms are likely, mainly between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 p.m. Some of the storms could be severe. Increasing clouds and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 102. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight: Scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 11 p.m. Some of the storms could be severe. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Light and variable wind. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
Virginia weather watches and warnings
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Reporter Monique Calello covers weather in the Shenandoah Valley at The News Leader in Staunton. Connect with her at mcalello@newsleader.com.
This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Severe storms could disrupt Staunton Fourth of July
