Drivers and residents in Blacksburg, VA, should prepare for a mix of weather conditions over Labor Day weekend. From early-morning fog to thunderstorms later in the weekend, the forecast calls for changes that could impact travel and outdoor activities. However, the holiday itself should bring pleasant weather for those planning to enjoy the outdoors.
Foggy Start to Saturday
For those hitting the road early on Saturday, expect patchy fog to develop before sunrise. U.S. 460 and Route 11, along with other mountain roads, could experience reduced visibility, creating potentially hazardous driving conditions, especially between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. Once the fog clears, conditions will improve with partly sunny skies and temperatures reaching a high near 78°F.
Sunday: Thunderstorms and Slick Roads
Sunday brings a higher chance of unsettled weather, particularly after 3 p.m. Scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop, which could disrupt outdoor plans for the afternoon and evening. While rainfall totals will likely be light in most areas, brief, heavy bursts of rain could lead to slick roads and the risk of hydroplaning. Travelers returning home Sunday night should be especially cautious on wet, slippery roadways.
Labor Day: A Break from the Storms
Labor Day Monday looks to be the most favorable day for outdoor activities. Expect partly sunny skies and a high near 71°F, making it an ideal day for barbecues, picnics, and other outdoor events. The weather will be mild, with cooler temperatures than the weekend’s storms, allowing for a more comfortable holiday.
Looking Ahead: Early Week Calm Before More Showers
After a pleasant Labor Day, Tuesday will be calm and sunny, with highs again in the lower 70s. However, rain is expected to return by Wednesday and Thursday, bringing more showers as the unsettled weather pattern continues into early next week.
Travel and Safety Tips
- Fog: Drivers are advised to allow extra time for early morning trips and to use headlights through fog patches to improve visibility.
- Thunderstorms: If attending outdoor gatherings or traveling on Sunday, secure tents, grills, and other outdoor items in case storms arrive earlier than expected. Monitor weather updates, especially if you’re in areas prone to downpours and localized flooding.
- Slick Roads: Travelers on Sunday night and into Monday morning should be prepared for slick roads due to rain. Always drive cautiously in wet conditions, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
Five-Day Forecast for Blacksburg, VA:
- Saturday: Patchy fog early, then mostly sunny, high 78°F.
- Sunday: Scattered thunderstorms after 3 p.m., high 70°F.
- Labor Day Monday: Partly sunny, high 71°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 71°F.
- Wednesday: Showers likely, high 72°F.