Severe Weather Warning: Flood Watch announced in anticipation of heavy rainfall and impending storms
The Washington, D.C. area is bracing for a hot and potentially stormy Thursday, with a high near 97°F and heat index values potentially reaching 107°F[1][2][5]. This has prompted a heat advisory that will be in effect from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Residents should prepare for intense heat throughout the day and remain alert for isolated evening storms that could produce brief heavy rain or gusty winds but are unlikely to lead to severe weather or major flooding[1][2][5]. There is a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms mainly after 5 PM, with southwest winds of 7 to 11 mph and gusts up to 20 mph[1][5].
Regarding flood potential, earlier flash flood warnings around mid-July have expired, and there is no current active flood watch or flash flood warning for Thursday, though heavy rainfall within thunderstorms could cause localized flooding. This means widespread flood risk is low but isolated flash flooding from storms cannot be ruled out[2].
In the event of heavy rain and potential flooding, residents are advised to stay informed and avoid driving through flooded roads or walking through floodwaters. Unfortunately, reports of pets being trapped due to flooding on Brownton Road and homes being flooded in the same area have been reported[3].
Glenkirk Road has a vehicle disabled with 6 inches of water over the bridge downstream of Lake Manassas Dam, highlighting the potential impact of the heavy rain on road conditions[4]. Areas of rain and storms will continue for some overnight.
To stay up to date with the latest forecast, residents are encouraged to download the First Alert Weather app. The hot and humid weather pattern is expected to continue, with temperatures in the 70s overnight[1].
Residents are advised to take precautions to stay safe in the heat, such as staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and checking on vulnerable neighbours, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses[6].
[1] National Weather Service [2] Weather Prediction Center [3] Local News Outlet [4] Virginia Department of Transportation [5] Storm Prediction Center [6] American Red Cross
- General news outlets report that the Washington, D.C. area is forecasting intense heat throughout the day, with a significant chance of storms after 5 PM, raising concerns about potential localized flooding due to heavy rainfall, especially on roads like Glenkirk Road.
- While residents should be alert for weather-related hazards such as isolated evening storms and the potential for flash flooding, they are also reminded to take precautions against the heat, such as staying hydrated and checking on vulnerable neighbors, especially during the heat advisory that is in effect from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
