Torrential Rain Looms In NoVA, DC: Flood Watch Issued

The DC region isn't quite off the hook from torrential rain and flooding quite yet. More heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected Thursday and through Friday, forecasters say. The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch through Friday morning for Northern Virginia and DC.

Forecasters expect repeated heavy showers and thunderstorms, resulting in water rising rapidly. Because the ground is already saturated from previous storms, the area is vulnerable to flash flooding when more heavy rain arrives.

NWS forecasters say showers are developing west of the region Thursday morning and will make their way over in the afternoon and evening.

The Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang predicts the heaviest rain west of DC. Showers and isolated thunderstorms could continue into Friday, becoming more likely again in the afternoon and evening. If there's any consolation, storms should clear out Friday night and give way to sun on Saturday.

A flash flood watch means that conditions may develop leading to flash flooding. Residents should monitor the forecast in case a flash flood warning is issued. Urban areas, locations along small streams and creeks, and poor drainage areas are particularly prone to flooding.

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The flood watch applies to the District of Columbia, the Virginia counties of Augusta, Rockingham, Shenandoah, Frederick, Page, Warren, Clarke, Prince William, Fairfax, Arlington, Fauquier, Highland and Loudoun, as well as the cities of Manassas, Manassas Park, Fairfax, Arlington, Falls Church and Alexandria.

Earlier this week, flooding prompted rescues around the region. In Vienna, a driver reportedly removed a protective barrier closing a flooded road, causing several cars to drive into flood waters. A similar rescue happened in Clifton on a road where a creek overflowed.

According to the NWS, six inches of rapid flood water can knock over an adult, a foot of rushing water can carry away a small car and two feet can carry away most vehicles. Officials urge residents to "turn around, don't drown" when encountering flooded roads.

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