Washington, D.C. – A widespread Flood Watch takes effect Thursday afternoon as torrential rain threatens to swamp roadways and neighborhoods across the District, Maryland, and northern Virginia. Local officials are urging residents to prepare for rapid rises in water and dangerous driving conditions from 3 to 8 p.m., when the heaviest rainfall is expected.
According to the National Weather Service, numerous rounds of thunderstorms may deliver 1 to 2 inches of rain within 30 minutes, with some communities facing up to 6 inches by late Thursday night. Flash flooding could impact the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland counties like Montgomery, Howard, Prince George’s, and Anne Arundel, as well as key corridors in northern Virginia, including Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties.
Urban and low-lying areas—especially along the Anacostia and Potomac rivers—face the highest risk. Major commuter routes such as I-495, Route 50, and I-270 may see closures or significant delays. Emergency managers urge drivers never to cross flooded roadways and to move to higher ground if water rises rapidly. Residents should clear drains, secure loose items, and charge devices ahead of possible power outages.
With rain and thunderstorms lingering through midnight, more advisories and warnings are likely. Stay tuned to local updates as conditions can change quickly and flood threats may persist into early Friday.
