Weather Alert: Flash Flood Warning Issued For Northern Virginia, DC

(Updated 2:23 p.m.) MCLEAN, VA—A flash flood warning has been issued for the Northern Virginia and DC areas by the National Weather Service. A flood watch has been extended through Thursday, July 6 until 2 a.m. Friday.

The weather service expects multiple rounds of rain with a chance of torrential rain. Thunderstorms are expected in the late morning, in the afternoon and early evening. The strongest storms are expected to produce one to three inches of rain.

A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.

Areas that should expect flooding are Centreville, Reston, Annandale, Springfield, Fairfax, Vienna, Falls Church, Mantua, Fort Belvoir, Pimmit Hills, Burke, Linton Hall, Oakton, Chantilly, Lincolnia, Tysons Corner, Lorton, Franconia, Wolf Trap and Merrifield.

The warning includes the District of Columbia, Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria, Culpeper, Loudoun, Fairfax, King George, Prince William, Manassas, Manassas Park, Spotsylvania and Stafford.

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The Virginia Department of Transportation asks drivers to turn headlights and drive slowly. The weather has already resulted in downed trees and flooding in the area.

Here are some tips to remember during severe weather:

• If you are near streams or drainage ditches keep an eye on them and be ready to quickly seek higher ground. Water may rise rapidly.
• Clear out storm drains.
• Those prone to basement flooding should prepare.
• Communities prone to flooding should prepare.

The forecast calls for more rain into the weekend.

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