Enhanced severe weather risk for Roanoke Valley, budget stalemate triggers special session, and early voting continues for Virginia redistricting referendum — WFIR News Express 3/16/26

On this Monday, March 16, 2026 edition of WFIR News Express, the Roanoke Valley is under an enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms, with the potential for tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail. After the front moves through, gusty winds and sharply colder air follow — with a chance of snow Monday evening and a hard freeze expected midweek.We also cover the latest fallout from the Old Dominion University shooting, as a Republican delegate blames Democratic policy and the FBI says it will investigate the attack as terrorism. In Richmond, the General Assembly adjourns without passing a budget, setting up a special session on April 23 amid disagreement over data center tax exemptions — while lawmakers pass bills including recreational marijuana sales beginning in 2027, legalized skill games, and collective bargaining for state employees.In federal news, judges decline to extend Robert Tracci’s term as acting U.S. attorney for Virginia’s Western District. Locally, Roanoke College unveils the new Kim Kyu-sik Center for Korean Studies in partnership with the Republic of Korea, Virginia Tech men’s basketball declines an NIT invitation, and Roanoke celebrates the opening of the new Wasena Skate Park and Pump Track.Plus, Virginia Tech’s Appalachian Studies program receives a $5 million grant to expand Monuments Across Appalachian Virginia, the Excel Center and Virginia Western sign an agreement to create new career pathways for adult learners, and Lynchburg’s Agudath Sholom Synagogue outlines security measures following a recent attack elsewhere.And as early voting for the April 21 redistricting referendum continues, Congressman Morgan Griffith weighs in on the map debate and what could change if voters approve the plan.That’s the latest from WFIR News Express.