Charlottesville, Va. – Flood-prone areas across western Maryland, eastern West Virginia, and parts of Virginia’s Blue Ridge and Piedmont regions could see dangerous runoff and flash flooding beginning early Wednesday, with rainfall totals up to 4 inches possible by nightfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a Flood Watch is in effect from 5 a.m. Wednesday through late Wednesday night for counties including Allegany, Garrett, Greene, Madison, Rappahannock, and the Northern Virginia Blue Ridge. Already saturated ground from last week’s storms may worsen runoff, increasing the risk of rapid rises in streams, creeks, and low-lying roads.
In western Maryland, flooding is most likely in Cumberland, Frostburg, and Deep Creek Lake, where up to 4 inches of rain could fall in just 12 hours. Virginia’s Madison and Rappahannock counties may see 2 to 3 inches, with localized higher totals. In West Virginia, Mineral and Grant counties face similar threats, especially in areas near the North Branch Potomac River.
Residents should avoid driving through flooded roadways, secure outdoor belongings, and prepare for potential power outages. Emergency management officials recommend charging devices and having backup food and water supplies ready.
Flood Watches remain in effect through Wednesday evening, and additional warnings may follow if rainfall intensifies.
