A state of emergency was declared in Virginia Beach following a tornado that touched down in Great Bridge on Sunday.
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The National Weather Service confirmed that the tornado was EF-3 with winds estimated at 140-150 mph, the first of its strength on record in the area.
According to WAVY-TV 10, the last EF-3 tornadoes in Hampton Roads took place in Suffolk in 2008 and James City/Gloucester in 2011.
At a press conference on Monday, Mayor Bobby Dyer expressed gratitude that there were no injuries or loss of life during the tornado and appreciated the prompt action of responders.
Approximately 115 buildings were damaged during the storm, including between 50 and 100 homes.
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In Virginia Beach, Cox High School, Great Neck Middle School, and John Dey Elementary School were closed on Monday.
Residents impacted by the storm can take shelter at the Great Neck Recreation Center, according to city personnel. The temporary shelter is located at 2521 Shorehaven Drive, pets are welcome.
Residents who were impacted by last night's storms are welcome to visit the Great Neck Recreation Center if they need a hot shower or power to charge any devices. Grief counselors are also available to anyone who may need their services until 5 p.m.
— Virginia Beach (@CityofVaBeach) May 1, 2023
Great Neck Road is closed between Cox High School and the bridge at Adam Keeling Road until further notice.
⚠️HEADS UP: Southbound Great Neck Rd. "soft closure" (one lane only/partial); Great Neck Rd at Adam Keeling hard closure; Northbound Great Neck Rd at Mill Dam Rd hard closure
— Virginia Beach (@CityofVaBeach) May 1, 2023
The city also shared that officials are establishing channels of donations and will share updates at emergency.vbgov.com.
More information will be shared at https://t.co/ynjtEfmF47 as soon as it is available.
— Virginia Beach (@CityofVaBeach) May 1, 2023
