Virginia, DC Weather Alert: Flash Flood Watch Issued

WASHINGTON, DC — A flash flood watch has been issued for Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia until 10 p.m. Sunday. Drivers and boaters should be advised of potentially dangerous conditions, the National Service warns. Across the state, flash flood watches are in effect as showers and thunderstorms create the potential for significant rainfall in a short period of time.

A flash flood watch means that conditions could lead to flash flooding, a dangerous condition that occurs when water levels rise rapidly. Showers and thunderstorms capable of dropping 1 to 3 inches of rain on the region are expected Sunday afternoon and evening, and may lead to flash flooding.

A flash flood watch is in effect from noon until 2 a.m. on Monday, May 28, for the District of Columbia, Rappahannock, Culpeper, Prince William, Manassas, Manassas Park, Fairfax, Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria, Stafford, Fauquier, and Loudoun areas. The cities of Dale City, Manassas, Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, Montclair, Reston, Herndon, Annandale, Centreville, Chantilly, McLean, Franconia, Arlington, Alexandria, Falmouth, Warrenton, Turnbull, Leesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, and Big Meadows are in the watch area.

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Such rainfall in a short period may lead to a rapid rise in water level, which authorities say could cause flash flooding, especially around small streams and urban areas.

Boaters should also take precautions, the National Weather Service added. High waves, strong wind gusts, lower visibility and potential lightning strikes may occur. Boaters are encouraged to head for shore.

A hazardous weather outlook was issued for Tidal Potomac from Cobb Island, Maryland, to Smith Point, Virginia, along with inland waters surrounding the District of Columbia, Prince William, Manassas, Manassas Park, Fairfax, Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria, Stafford, Spotsylvania and King George.

Maryland's Eastern Shore, the Delaware beaches and southern New Jersey are under the flash flood watch as well.

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