Wind Gusts Up To 50 MPH Extend Advisory For Northern Virginia, DC

WASHINGTON, DC — Strong winds will continue to blast the Washington, D.C., region through Monday evening, according to the National Weather Service, which has extended a wind advisory for northern Virginia. Gusts could reach up to 50 mph on Monday, according to authorities.

Falling trees are a major concern, according to the National Weather Service, since strong winds will continue for hours in areas where the ground is saturated from recent rain and snowmelt.
The strong winds are expected to continued until 6 p.m. Monday, and have already knocked a tree onto a house and cut off power to two schools.

Fairfax County and Rescue firefighters had to rescue two people at a Burke home Sunday night after a large tree fell on the structure. No one was injured. Fallen trees also caused road closures in McLean Monday morning.

And in Alexandria, two elementary schools are closed Monday, Feb. 25 after power outages. Students who have already been dropped off at Patrick Henry and William Ramsay Elementary Schools need to be picked up. ID is required to pick students up. Administrative offices are open, while activities on school grounds are canceled.

Here is a look at the winds in the forecast, according to the National Weather Service:

• Monday morning to afternoon: 25 to 35 mph winds, with gusts up to 55mph

Due to the potential for hazardous conditions, the National Weather Service has a wind advisory in effect for the following from 4 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday: Prince William, Manassas, Manassas Park, Fairfax, Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria, Loudoun, Washington DC, Dale City, Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, Montclair, Reston, Herndon, Annandale, Centreville, Chantilly, McLean, Franconia, Leesburg, Ashburn, and Sterling.

Officials issue a wind advisory when winds of 45 to 55 mph are expected, making driving difficult, particularly for those in high-profile vehicles.

Trees and power lines may blow down, resulting in scattered power outages, officials warn. "It will not take much wind to result in downed trees and power lines," the warning states. Area emergency officials are encouraging residents to prepare.

Preparing For Strong Winds

• Secure outdoor furniture and objects.
• Charge electronic devices.
• Clear dead trees or branches hanging over structures.

Driving In Strong Winds

• Keep both hands on the wheel.
• Increase following distance, since gusts may blow vehicles across the road, particularly SUVs, trucks, vans and other high-profile vehicles.
• Drive to the shoulder, away from objects that might fall on your vehicle, and put on hazards if winds are too strong to drive safely.
• Call 911 and do not touch the metal frame of your vehicle if a power line falls on your car.

During High Winds

• Stay inside if possible.
• Watch for flying debris.
• Call the utility company if a power line falls or is sparking; do not touch it.

Dominion Power:

• Report a power outage and check the status on an outage.
• Or call 866-366-4357.
• Northern Virginia outage map.
• Outage safety and preparations.
• Outage FAQ.

NOVEC:

• Report power outages.
• Or call 703-335-0500, 888-335-0500.
• Northern Virginia outage map.

The high wind safety tips above are from the National Weather Service.

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