Flash Flood Watch Issued In Northern Virginia, D.C. And Maryland

STERLING, VA — The National Weather service has issued a flash flood watch for the Washington, D.C., region through midnight Friday. The watch includes the District, a portion of Northern Virginia and a wide swath of Maryland.

A flash flood watch means that there is the potential for flash flooding, which can be life-threatening. Heavy rain in a short time can lead to flash flooding, or a rapid rise in water level.

Slow-moving thunderstorms that may be accompanied by heavy rain are in Friday's forecast. Weather officials said these storms may develop through Friday afternoon and evening, causing low-lying areas to flood, as well as small streams and areas with poor drainage.

The flash flood watch covers Arlington County and the cities of Alexandria and Falls Church, as well as part of Fairfax County, including Reston, Herndon, Centreville, Chantilly, McLean, Annandale and Franconia.

In Maryland, the flash flood watch covers the city of Baltimore and surrounding counties, including Baltimore County and Anne Arundel, Carroll, Harford and Howard. It also covers Frederick, Prince George's and Montgomery counties.

Graphic via National Weather Service