Baltimore, MD – Heavy rain and potential flash flooding could impact parts of western Maryland, eastern West Virginia, and the Shenandoah Valley through 11 p.m. tonight, prompting a Flood Watch that spans several mountainous and low-lying regions.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, 1 to 3 inches of rain is expected this afternoon into late evening, with localized totals reaching up to 5 inches. The highest risk areas include Cumberland, Oakland, Romney, and Harrisonburg, especially between noon and 7 p.m., when thunderstorm activity is expected to peak.
Saturated soils from recent rainfall will increase the chance of flash flooding on rural roads, creeks, and flood-prone intersections. Travelers along I-68, Route 50, and Route 220 should avoid low-lying areas and never attempt to drive through water-covered roads.
Emergency officials recommend charging devices, monitoring local alerts, and postponing non-essential travel in at-risk zones. Urban runoff could also impact traffic routes closer to Leesburg and Winchester later today.
The Flood Watch remains in effect until 11 p.m. Tuesday, and additional warnings may be issued if storm intensity increases into the evening.
