DC Weather: Severe thunderstorm watches, warnings issued for DC area

WASHINGTON – Dangerous heat and severe weather are expected Tuesday across the Washington, D.C., region, with hot, humid conditions pushing heat index values as high as 106 degrees and strong thunderstorms likely this afternoon and evening.

A Heat Advisory has been in effect since 1 p.m. Tuesday. Temperatures will likely reach 95 degrees this afternoon. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected during the afternoon and evening hours.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued

The following areas are under a severe thunderstorm watch until 9:00 p.m. 

• Prince William County
• City of Fredericksburg
• City of Alexandria
• Fauquier County
• Fairfax County
• City of Manassas
• Stafford County
• City of Fairfax
• Arlington County
• Anne Arundel County
• Prince Georges County
• Charles County
• Frederick County
• Carroll County
• Montgomery County
• District of Columbia

Heat Advisory Tuesday

What we know:

In Maryland, the advisory includes Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Cecil, Southeast Harford, Southern Baltimore, Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties. 

In Virginia, the advisory includes King George, Spotsylvania, Fairfax, Stafford, and central and southeast Prince William counties, along with Manassas, Manassas Park, Arlington, Falls Church, and Alexandria.

DC Heat Advisory Tuesday; severe afternoon and evening storms possible

The National Weather Service is urging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Officials advise staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity, using air-conditioned spaces, and checking on vulnerable individuals.

If working outdoors, take frequent rest breaks in shaded or cooled areas. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved immediately to a cool, shaded location.

Storms, flooding possible

Isolated severe thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon and evening could bring damaging winds, heavy downpours and flooding across the region. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely between 2 and 5 p.m., followed by more unsettled conditions and a chance of thunderstorms into the evening.

A Flood Watch is in effect from this afternoon through the evening for the District, along with parts of Maryland and Virginia. Low-lying and flood-prone areas are at increased risk.