Tornado Watch in Effect Friday for Anne Arundel

UPDATE (3:45 p.m.)—A tornado watch is in effect Friday for Anne Arundel County as well as in many other counties in Maryland.

The watch, according to the National Weather Service, was issued at 2:30 p.m. Friday and is in effect until 10 p.m.

It applies to these counties:

Howard, Carroll, Anne Arundel, Caroline, Charles, Prince George’s, Talbot, Baltimore, Frederick, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Washington, Calvert, Cecil, Harford, Montgomery and St. Mary’s. It also applies to Baltimore City.

This storm is predicted to bring heavy rainfall and wind gusts of an estimated 60 mph, according to the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA).

There is also the possibility of gusty cross winds on bridges, according to SHA.

“The combination of flooding rain and high winds could make for a treacherous drive home this afternoon,” said Melinda B. Peters, SHA Administrator in a prepared statement on Friday. “Motorists should not attempt to drive through roadways that are flooded or try to maneuver around downed wires.” 

Other tips from SHA:

• “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Flash floods can come rapidly and unexpectedly. They can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall;
•  Avoid low-lying areas with a history of flooding; 
• Never maneuver around low hanging trees or wires or try to move branches or downed wires out of the travel lanes; and 
• Increase following distances between vehicles.  Remember to use low-beam headlights when windshield wipers are in operation.

SHA advises motorists to call 511 or 855-GOMD511 or visit www.md511.org for current travel information.