Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for DC Metro Region

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the entire DC metro region Tuesday. The Watch is in effect until 9 p.m. Tuesday, according to the weather service.

Affected areas include Alexandria, Arlington, Falls Church, Fairfax County and the District of Columbia.

A Thunderstorm Watch is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area, according to the weather service.

A severe thunderstorm is defined by the NWS produces 1-inch hail or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceed 58 miles an hour. The size of the watch can vary depending on the weather situation. They are normally issued well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather. During the watch, people should review severe thunderstorm safety rules and be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.