Baltimore, MD – Severe thunderstorms capable of producing isolated tornadoes are threatening much of Maryland and parts of Northern Virginia Wednesday evening, with the tornado watch now expanded east toward the Baltimore metro area.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office, the watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday and includes communities from Cumberland and Hagerstown east to Westminster, Baltimore, and nearby suburbs, as well as Winchester and Leesburg in Northern Virginia. Storms developing along the Interstate 70 and Interstate 81 corridors could quickly intensify.
Forecasters warn the strongest storms may produce damaging wind gusts over 60 mph, hail, and brief tornadoes, especially in western and central Maryland. Drivers along I-70, I-81, and I-68 should remain alert for sudden downpours and rapidly changing road conditions during the evening commute.
Emergency officials urge residents to review shelter plans and monitor weather alerts on phones or NOAA Weather Radio. If a tornado warning is issued, move immediately to an interior room on the lowest floor away from windows.
Storm activity should gradually shift east toward the Baltimore-Washington corridor late Wednesday evening, but additional warnings could be issued as storms intensify.
