Washington, D.C. – The D.C. metro area is bracing for intense afternoon thunderstorms on Friday, which could lead to flash flooding, especially along key routes like Route 50 and I-495.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch that remains in effect until 9 p.m. on Friday, affecting Washington, D.C., most of Maryland, and parts of Northern Virginia.
Heavy Rain and Flooding Risk
The heavy thunderstorms are expected to bring rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour, with some areas receiving 2 to 3 inches of rain. This could lead to flash flooding in locations with poor drainage, creeks, and underpasses.
Regions affected include Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, and Montgomery counties in Maryland, as well as Arlington, Fairfax, and Alexandria in Virginia.
Evening Conditions and Travel Warnings
As showers and storms intensify, gusts up to 25 mph and lightning are possible, which will make driving even more dangerous. The weather will calm down later in the night as winds shift, but the saturated ground could still cause problems.
Local emergency services are urging drivers to avoid flooded roads, and they remind people of the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” rule when encountering flooded areas. Additionally, the National Weather Service recommends limiting travel and checking home drains to avoid backups.
A Warm Weekend After the Storms
Despite the intense thunderstorms, the weekend forecast looks much better. Skies will clear up by Friday night, and Saturday will be partly cloudy with a high of 93°F. Sunday is expected to be even hotter, with temperatures near 98°F, making it the hottest day of the next five days. The warmth continues into Monday, with sunny skies and a high of 99°F.
As the storms move through the D.C. metro area, residents and commuters should stay alert to weather conditions, monitor local alerts, and avoid travel during the heaviest rainfall. After the storms pass, the weekend looks to be dry and hot, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities.
