Alert Special Weather Statement until TUE 4:00 PM EDT Jul 7, 2026 Jul 7, 2026 Updated 2 hrs ago Prefer us on Google Learn More Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Strong Thunderstorms Bringing Gusty Winds and Hail This AfternoonWhat’s Happening:A line of strong thunderstorms is moving northeast at 15 mph. The storms are expected to affect the area until late afternoon.Affected Areas:Western Campbell CountyNorthwestern Pittsylvania CountyCentral Bedford CountyCentral Amherst CountyNortheastern Franklin CountyCity of LynchburgWhat to Expect:Winds in excess of 40 mphPea size hail Impacts:Potential for localized power outagesHazardous travel conditions due to strong winds and hail People are also reading… Smith Mountain Lake businesses feel the impact of low lake levels Miss Virginia's Teen winner, from Rocky Mount, proud to represent community Postseason heartbreak helped bring back Virginia basketball's core of returners Orange County announces Independence Day facility closures Former Ferrum, Georgia Tech football star Perdoni dies at 78 Roanoke police investigating kennel, urge owners to remove dogs Bird-themed celebration this month at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Potato chip recall upgraded to highest risk over salmonella fears After impersonating police to confront Rocky Mount mayor, man gets jail time Early look at Virginia Tech's 2026 Week 11 opponent Stanford Franklin County woman admits to stealing thousands from Vietnam veteran The gunpowder seizure that pushed Virginia toward war No-wake zones around Independence Day fireworks at Smith Mountain Lake With state budget blessed, Stack advances Southern Virginia project Transgender people finding it hard to win at US Supreme Court Safety Tips:If you are on or near Smith Mountain Lake or Philpott Lake, get out of the water and move indoors or inside a vehicle.Seek shelter immediately if you hear thunder. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from the parent thunderstorm.Avoid outdoor activities until the storm passes.When to Check Back:Monitor weather.gov or thefranklinnewspost.com/weather for updates. This weather alert was produced with AI assistance using National Weather Service data. Local Weather Get the daily forecast and severe weather alerts in your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Related to this story Watch Now: Related Video Del. Garrett discusses an amendment to open carry of assault firearms Sen. Surovell discusses amendment on Oak Hill Farm Sen. Surovell discusses amendment on Oak Hill Farm Sen. Stuart discusses amendment on menhaden Sen. Stuart discusses amendment on menhaden Sen. Stuart talks about budget negotiations Sen. Stuart talks about budget negotiations
