Flood Watch and Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Effect for Washington D.C. Area
The Washington D.C. area is currently under a flood watch until 8 p.m. and a severe thunderstorm watch until 9 p.m. as storms continue to develop in the region. The National Weather Service has issued these watches due to the potential for heavy rainfall and severe weather.
As of 3:30 p.m., the heaviest rain has pushed east of the District and is not as intense as initially feared. The showers and storms that developed to the Beltway and to the west quickly swept through Northern Virginia and the District without dropping a significant amount of rain. The heaviest downpours are now focused in the zone just south of Baltimore through Glen Burnie, Bowie, Annapolis, and southern Anne Arundel County. These storms may intensify as they continue to move east and northeast, crossing the bay.
However, there are still some trailing storms to the west of Fredericksburg that are streaking to the northeast and could be an issue for the southern suburbs of the D.C. area.
At 2:50 p.m., storms with heavy rain and lightning moved inside the Beltway but were not yet severe. The primary concern is that these downpours are occurring over the same areas that experienced flooding yesterday, and they are sweeping toward the northeast, potentially affecting areas in the District where flooding occurred. However, these storms may move fast enough that the rain doesn’t last as long. Most places should see storms for about 30 to 45 minutes before the rain ends.
The severe thunderstorm watch was issued at 2:23 p.m. as storms began to develop west and southwest of the Beltway. The National Weather Service warns that scattered thunderstorms will develop this afternoon ahead of an approaching cold front. Some of these storms may become severe, posing a risk of locally damaging wind gusts. There is also a small chance of large hail and/or an isolated tornado.
In addition to the severe weather potential, the flood watch is in effect until 8 p.m. due to the risk of torrential rain causing areas of high water. The ground is already soaked from yesterday’s rainfall, making areas of poor drainage and small streams prone to flooding most vulnerable.
Residents are advised to stay alert and be ready to take action if a storm warning is issued for their location. It is best to avoid traveling during severe thunderstorm and flood warnings. If driving and encountering a flooded road, it is important not to attempt to drive through as water levels are difficult to judge. Turn around and find an alternate route.
The severe thunderstorm affecting the D.C. area is expansive, covering a zone from northeast North Carolina to central New Jersey and affecting over 20 million people.
After the storms move out, the heat and humidity should ease heading into Wednesday. Tomorrow is expected to be a pleasant day with lots of sun and a pleasant breeze from the northwest. High temperatures will mainly be in the mid- to upper 80s.
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What precautions should residents take to stay safe during severe weather events, such as flooding and severe thunderstorms
Ay weaken once they cross the bay.
Residents in the Washington D.C. area are advised to stay alert and monitor weather updates throughout the evening. The flood watch means that there is a potential for flooding in low-lying areas, streets, and streams. It is important to exercise caution and avoid driving through flooded roads. The severe thunderstorm watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms, including damaging winds, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes. Stay indoors, away from windows, and secure any outdoor furniture or objects that could be carried away by strong winds.
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed. It is always better to be prepared and stay safe during severe weather events.
Stay safe everyone!
Don’t forget to secure any loose outdoor items!