Washington, D.C. – A widespread Flood Watch is in effect this afternoon through Monday evening for the D.C. metro area, southern Maryland, and central Virginia, where slow-moving storms could dump up to 5 inches of rain. The heaviest downpours are expected during the evening commute, raising the risk of road flooding and travel delays along I-95.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office, storms are forecast to initiate west of the Blue Ridge Mountains between 1 and 4 p.m. and move eastward, reaching the I-95 corridor from 4 to 8 p.m. A general 1 to 3 inches of rain is likely across the watch area, with isolated higher totals.
Residents in Fairfax, Prince George’s, Montgomery, and Anne Arundel counties should avoid low-lying roads and monitor local alerts. In southern Maryland, areas like Waldorf and Lexington Park could see flash flooding in poorly drained spots. Central Virginia’s Piedmont region, including Charlottesville and Fredericksburg, is also under threat.
Drivers should avoid flooded roads and check for closures. Charge devices and secure basements in flood-prone zones.
The Flood Watch remains in effect until late this evening, with additional alerts possible if storms intensify or stall.
