Washington, D.C. – A dangerous line of severe thunderstorms is sweeping across the Mid-Atlantic, prompting watches and warnings from Virginia to Pennsylvania through midnight Monday, with the greatest risks including damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes.
According to the National Weather Service, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 12 a.m. EDT Tuesday, May 6, for parts of Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Delaware, affecting over 10 million people. Another watch remains in place for southeast Virginia and northeast North Carolina until 9 p.m. EDT.
Communities including Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Richmond, Winchester, and Fredericksburg could see wind gusts reaching 70 mph, with ping pong ball-sized hail and a few tornadoes possible. Areas across Central and Eastern Virginia, including the Hampton Roads region, are already experiencing intense cells capable of downing trees and power lines.
Drivers should avoid travel during active warnings. Secure outdoor objects, charge devices, and remain indoors if thunder roars. Coastal waters like the James and York Rivers are also under threat.
Storms are expected to weaken after midnight, but additional alerts could be issued as the system pushes east. Stay tuned to local weather channels and NOAA alerts for updates.
