Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued: Take Shelter, Officials Say

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 12:30 a.m. Wednesday for several areas in central Maryland. Wind gusts of 60 mph have been detected by radar accompanying the storms, according to the National Weather Service.

Severe thunderstorms were detected from White Marsh to Fort Meade at 11:58 p.m., and they were moving east at 60 mph, the warning said.

Earlier, a line of storms was spotted from Lutherville-Timonium to near Laurel at 11:48 p.m., also moving east at 60 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

The severe thunderstorm warning applies to these areas:

• Baltimore City
• Northern Anne Arundel County
• Eastern Howard County
• East central Montgomery County
• Southeastern Harford County
• Southern Baltimore County
• North central Prince George's County

"Damaging winds will cause some trees and large branches to fall," the warning said. "This could injure those outdoors, as well as damage homes and vehicles."

These areas may be impacted: Baltimore, Columbia, Severn, Pikesville, Middle River, Cockeysville, Elkridge, Riviera Beach, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Baltimore-Washington Airport, Fort Smallwood State Park, Gibson Island, Sillery Bay, Millers Island, North Point State Park, Magothy River, Sparrows Point, Pinehurst, Bodkin Point and Dobbins Island.

During the severe thunderstorm warning period, people should go inside to stay safe and move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.

"Wind damage with these storms will occur before any lightning," the warning said. "Do not wait for the sound of thunder before taking cover. SEEK SHELTER IMMEDIATELY inside a sturdy structure and stay away from windows."

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.