Washington, District of Columbia – A smoky haze is hanging over the nation’s capital this morning, and the atmosphere is primed for a volatile afternoon. Heat, humidity and wildfire smoke are already affecting air quality, while powerful thunderstorms could rapidly develop later today and create hazardous travel conditions across the Washington metro.
According to the National Weather Service and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, a Heat Advisory remains in effect from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. EDT, with heat index values reaching around 105 degrees. An Air Quality Alert also continues through tonight as wildfire smoke keeps fine particle pollution elevated. Sensitive groups should reduce prolonged outdoor activity, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Temperatures will climb to 96 degrees this afternoon before scattered thunderstorms become widespread after 2 p.m. The National Weather Service says some storms could become severe, producing damaging wind gusts approaching 70 mph, large hail, torrential rainfall and isolated tornadoes. Localized flash flooding is also possible where heavier downpours repeatedly track over the same locations.
Travel could quickly deteriorate on Interstates 95, 395, 495 and the George Washington Parkway. Visibility may change rapidly in smoke and heavy rain, while ponding water could slow the evening commute. If thunder roars, move indoors immediately. Consider completing outdoor activities before early afternoon, stay hydrated and check on elderly neighbors.
Conditions improve Sunday with sunshine and a high near 88 degrees. Monday remains warm with only a slight chance of afternoon showers before another active weather pattern returns Tuesday, bringing additional thunderstorms and renewed travel concerns.
The Climate Prediction Center continues to signal above-normal temperatures through late next week, keeping midsummer heat firmly in place across the Mid-Atlantic.
Are you seeing smoke or storm clouds where you live? Share your weather conditions and travel reports from around the Washington area.
Five-Day Forecast for Washington, District of Columbia
- Sunday: Mostly sunny. High 88°F, Low 69°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny with a 30% chance of afternoon showers. High 87°F, Low 71°F.
- Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely during the afternoon. High 90°F, Low 73°F.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny with scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High 88°F, Low 66°F.
- Thursday: Sunny. High 83°F, Low 66°F.
