Weather Alert: Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued For DC Area

WASHINGTON, DC — The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Washington, D.C., and several northern Virginia suburbs until 9:30 a.m. Friday. At 8:35 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Fort Belvoir to near Prince Frederick, moving north at 65 mph.

The severe thunderstorm warning affects the District of Columbia, plus the Frederick, Fairfax, Loudoun, Arlington, Falls Church and Alexandria areas.

Locally heavy rainfall can be expected. There are 60 mph wind gusts possible during the warning period, according to the weather service. Damaging winds may cause trees and large branches to fall, damaging homes and vehicles. Roads may be blocked, and power outages are possible.

The National Weather Service also issued a flood warning for the same areas, along with Montgomery County in Maryland, until noon. At 8:52 a.m. radar indicated heavy rain that will cause flooding. In some areas, this rain is totaling close to two inches in an hour, and flash flood warnings may be required for a portion of the metro area this morning.

When severe weather is possible, you should keep an eye to the sky and an ear to the National Weather Service’s weather radio or local radio and television stations for further updates and possible warnings.

Get indoors to protect yourself from wind and lightning. Trees around you may be downed from damaging winds, so if you are near large trees, move to an interior room on the lowest floor. Don't drive underneath trees or in wooded areas until the threat has passed.

Intense thunderstorm lines can produce brief tornadoes and widespread significant wind damage. Although a tornado is not immediately likely, it is best to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. These storms may cause serious injury and significant property damage.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with these storms, and may lead to flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

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