Washington, D.C. – Commuters across the D.C. metro area could face dangerous flash flooding Friday night as slow-moving storms drop up to 4 inches of rain across the region.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch is in effect from 7 p.m. Friday through 4 a.m. Saturday for the District of Columbia, much of central Maryland, and northern Virginia. A stalled frontal boundary will fuel multiple rounds of thunderstorms, each capable of producing intense rainfall over short periods.
Flood-prone roadways, urban neighborhoods with poor drainage, and low-lying areas in Montgomery, Howard, Prince George’s, and Fairfax counties are especially vulnerable. Rainfall totals are expected to range from 2 to 3 inches, with isolated pockets near 4 inches, particularly in parts of Anne Arundel, Stafford, and Loudoun counties.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roads and to have emergency plans ready. Keep phones charged and avoid basements or underpasses during peak rainfall. The setup is similar to late-spring flooding events seen in 2021, which led to swift water rescues in suburban Maryland.
The heaviest rain is expected between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m., but flash flood warnings could be issued earlier. Additional alerts may follow as the system lingers into Saturday morning.
