Virginia Beach, Virginia, is reeling from the devastating effects of an EF3 tornado that hit the city on Sunday evening, causing significant damage to over 100 homes. City officials have declared a state of emergency, and crews are responding to multiple storm-damaged homes and reports of gas leaks in the area.
Despite the significant damage caused by the tornado, Virginia Beach officials reported that no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far. This is welcome news for the community, which is still reeling from the impact of the natural disaster.
Ef3 Tornado Hits Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach City Manager Patrick Duhaney announced a state of emergency in the area, with an early estimate of 50 to 100 homes damaged by Sunday’s severe weather. Duhaney thanked the city’s regional and state partners for their swift response and support.
The tornado warning was issued for the area at 5:47 p.m. EDT on Sunday as severe weather moved into the area. The twister struck Virginia Beach at 5:50 p.m., causing significant damage to homes and property.
Tornado Warning Issued
The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Wakefield, Virginia, confirmed EF3 tornado damage in the Great Neck portion of Virginia Beach. According to the NWS, the storm survey crew is still assessing the damage, and additional details will be released later today.
Following several calls and meetings with city officials and the NWS, the final evening of Something in the Water, a three-day music festival in Virginia Beach was canceled. The event organizers cited the severe weather, including heavy rain, strong winds, small craft advisories, lightning, and tornado warnings, as a significant threat to attendees’ and staff’s safety and well-being.
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Due to significant damage, road closures, and uncertainty related to transportation, at least three Virginia Beach schools announced they would be closed on Monday.
The impact of the EF3 tornado that hit Virginia Beach Sunday evening has left the community reeling. However, no injuries or fatalities have been reported thanks to the swift response of the city’s officials and state partners. As the community continues to assess the damage, it is essential to unite and support those affected by this natural disaster.
