Washington, D.C. – Severe thunderstorms threaten the DMV this afternoon, with the National Weather Service issuing a watch for all of D.C., central and eastern Maryland, and Delaware until 9 p.m. Tuesday. Residents from Baltimore to Dover should brace for dangerous winds, hail, and heavy rain likely to disrupt the evening commute.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, the Severe Thunderstorm Watch (No. 496) covers the District of Columbia, every county in Delaware, and more than a dozen Maryland counties—including Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Montgomery, and Baltimore City—through Tuesday night. The main risks are 60 mph wind gusts, quarter-sized hail, localized flooding, and frequent lightning, especially along I-95, Route 50, and coastal areas.
Commuters are urged to avoid flooded roads and stay indoors as storms roll through the Baltimore-Washington corridor, Annapolis, and the Delaware beaches. Power outages are possible, especially in low-lying and tree-lined neighborhoods. Secure loose outdoor items, charge cell phones, and keep flashlights ready.
This is the region’s most widespread severe weather threat of July so far, coming just weeks after June’s damaging storms. Officials remind residents to monitor alerts and check on neighbors, especially those with mobility issues.
The severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. Tuesday, with additional warnings possible if storms intensify.
