Washington, D.C. – Heavy rain and strong to severe thunderstorms could disrupt travel and trigger flash flooding from Virginia and West Virginia through New Jersey by Friday night, with some areas likely to receive more than 2 inches of rain.
According to the National Weather Service’s Middle Atlantic River Forecast Center, the biggest threat window stretches from late afternoon into the evening hours, with intense downpours, hail, and damaging wind gusts possible. A wide area from Richmond through Baltimore, Philadelphia, and into Trenton is under a risk for excessive rainfall.
The Potomac and Delaware River basins are expected to receive 1 to 2 inches of rain, with “caution stage” river levels forecast in multiple spots. Flash flooding is most likely in urban areas and along low-lying roadways. Commuters and residents are urged to avoid flooded roads, secure outdoor items, and prepare for potential power outages.
Minor flooding is also a concern in the Potomac basin, particularly in historically flood-prone neighborhoods and near small creeks. This system may resemble past spring events where rapid runoff overwhelmed storm drains and smaller tributaries.
Storms are expected to move out overnight, but additional advisories could be issued depending on rainfall totals and ground saturation.
