New Wave of Storms Sweeps Through D.C.’s Suburbs
D.C.’s southern and eastern suburbs are currently under a flood watch until 8 p.m. today, with hourly rainfall rates of 1.5 to 2 inches possible. Additionally, a severe thunderstorm watch has been issued until 9 p.m.
A new wave of storms has developed southwest of Washington and is currently entering the Interstate 95 corridor between Fredericksburg and Dale City, moving at a speed of 40 mph to the northeast. The most intense activity is currently moving into Fredericksburg, where a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 4:30 p.m. Heavy downpours, lightning, and wind gusts up to 60 mph are possible.
As these storms move east and northeast over the next hour, the areas mainly affected will be the District and the southern and eastern suburbs. While flooding is not a huge concern due to the speed at which the storms are moving, localized high water and strong wind gusts are possible. Alexandria, Waldorf, and La Plata are all expected to be affected by these storms.
Earlier in the afternoon, the heaviest rain pushed east of the District without causing significant damage. While some areas west of Burke and south of Alexandria experienced briefly heavy rainfall, most areas received much less precipitation. The heaviest downpours are currently focused in the zone from south of Baltimore through Glen Burnie, Bowie, Annapolis, and southern Anne Arundel County.
There is a likelihood that the trailing storms to the west of Fredericksburg, which are moving northeast, could pose a threat for the southern suburbs.
The National Weather Service has also issued a severe thunderstorm watch until 9 p.m. for the Washington and Baltimore areas and locations to the east, as thunderstorms develop ahead of an approaching cold front. Some of these storms may become severe, with a risk of locally damaging wind gusts, large hail, and isolated tornadoes.
A flood watch is also in effect until 8 p.m. due to the risk of torrential rain causing areas of high water. It is important for residents to stay alert and be ready to take action, seeking shelter immediately if a storm warning is issued.
As the storms move out of the region, conditions will improve heading into Wednesday, with lots of sun and pleasant temperatures in the mid- to upper-80s expected.
Overall, residents should stay informed about the current weather conditions and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period of storm activity.