A strong line of storms is moving across southwest Virginia this afternoon, disrupting power to thousands and bringing down trees that are blocking some streets and highways. WDBJ7 reports a wind gust of 56 miles per hour as the first wave rolled through. Salem Police report several streets are blocked by downed trees. The National Weather Service reports the storms are moving through at 50 to 55 mph. As of 4:15 pm, Appalachian Power reports almost 29,000 customers without power in Roanoke City and County; in the county alone, more than 35% of its customers are in the dark.
