Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued For 2 Counties Plus Baltimore

A severe thunderstorm is parked over Columbia, the National Weather Service reported at 5:40 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 5. Radar indicated 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-sized hail were occurring with the storm, which weather officials described as "nearly stationary."

Officials issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Howard and southwestern Baltimore counties as well as northwestern Baltimore City until 6:30 p.m.

These areas may be impacted, according to the warning: Columbia, Pikesville, Elkridge, Historic Ellicott City, Ellicott City, Catonsville, Woodlawn, Randallstown, Milford Mill, Lochearn, Arbutus, Savage-Guilford, Scaggsville, Ilchester, Jessup, Savage, Fulton, Highland, Hanover and Clarksville.

During the severe thunderstorm warning period, people should go inside to stay safe from wind and lightning. Do not drive underneath wooded areas until the threat has passed, as trees and branches may fall. Roads may become blocked by downed trees, and localized power outages are possible, according to the warning.

People should move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building as a precaution.