Norfolk Experiences '1 in 100-Year' Rainfall Event
Norfolk, Virginia, experienced a significant rainfall event on Tuesday, described by the National Weather Service (NWS) as a '1 in 100-year' occurrence. Over a 2-3 hour period, the Ghent neighborhood recorded 6.11 inches of rain, while Portsmouth saw 5.45 inches, and Suffolk received 4.2 inches. Other areas, including Norfolk International Airport, recorded lower totals, such as 1.22 inches. The storm coincided with high tide around 2 p.m., exacerbating flooding as freshwater had no outlet to drain. Flash flood warnings were issued at 1:38 p.m. and extended at 3:15 p.m., with alerts warning of life-threatening conditions. Floodwaters largely receded by 7 p.m., except in vulnerable underpasses. Experts noted the storm's slow movement and saturated atmosphere contributed to the heavy rainfall.