Washington, D.C. – Roads across the D.C. region could flood late Friday as intense thunderstorms dump up to five inches of rain in a matter of hours.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch is in effect from 6 p.m. Friday through 2 a.m. Saturday for the District of Columbia, parts of Maryland including Prince George’s, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, and much of northern and central Virginia, including Fairfax, Culpeper, Albemarle, and Spotsylvania.
Storms are expected to build late this afternoon and may train over the same areas, rapidly dropping 1 to 3 inches of rain per hour, with isolated totals near 5 inches. Urban areas and flood-prone zones near creeks and streams are especially vulnerable to flash flooding tonight.
Low-lying roadways, particularly in Arlington, Stafford, and Manassas, may become impassable. Commuters and late-night travelers are urged to avoid underpasses and flooded roads. Residents should charge devices, secure outdoor items, and be prepared to move to higher ground if needed.
This is the first significant flash flood threat of June in the region, driven by tropical moisture and saturated soil from earlier rains.
Flash Flood Warnings may be issued with little notice. Stay alert through early Saturday morning.
