News Flash

Jan. 28, 2022 - The latest weather forecast calls for 2-4 inches of snow overnight, wind gusts strong enough to bring down tree branches, and bitter cold. 

The combination of low temperatures and wind gusts up to 40 mph is expected to produce wind chill factors in the teens Saturday and single-digits on Sunday. A winter storm warning is in effect from 10 p.m. Friday until 4 p.m. Saturday, and a gale warning has also been issued. There is also a likelihood of minor tidal flooding.

Local and state emergency officials are urging people to stay at home, especially until roads are cleared. Hampton will close community and recreational facilities -- libraries, parks, including Bluebird Gap Farm, community centers, pools, the Hampton History Museum and Air Power Park on Saturday. Health officials urge people to be aware of the risk of heart attack when shoveling snow and to know the symptoms of hypothermia. 

The National Weather Service station in Wakefield predicts rain late this evening, turning into snow late tonight. Crews will be working 12-hour shifts treating roadways and bridges with salt and brine. They will begin plowing when snow accumulation reaches about an inch and a half. Click here to see a map of which streets will be plowed. 

For up-to-date forecasts for the region, click here. The winds are expected to push water in from the Chesapeake Bay, with the predicted high tide Saturday morning about 5 feet above mean lower low water. That's typically minor flooding that affects yards and some roads.

A state of emergency has been declared for the state and for Hampton, which does not affect residents but should serve to underscore the warnings for traffic and health. It also allows Hampton and the state additional flexibility in reacting to the storm.