Washington, D.C. – Streets across the D.C. metro area and surrounding counties could be underwater tonight as a powerful round of thunderstorms brings the threat of flash flooding, hazardous travel, and possible road closures through at least 2 a.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Watch remains in effect for Washington, D.C., nearly all of central Maryland—including Baltimore, Frederick, and Montgomery counties—and much of northern Virginia and the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. The heaviest rainfall is expected between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday, with localized downpours delivering 1 to 2 inches of rain in just 30 minutes and isolated totals climbing as high as 4 to 6 inches.
Urban streets, low-lying neighborhoods, and flood-prone intersections—especially along Rock Creek Parkway, Route 1 in Alexandria, and I-95 corridors—are at high risk for flash flooding. Power outages and transit disruptions are likely as thunderstorms repeatedly pass over the same areas. The greatest impact is expected in Baltimore, Prince George’s, Montgomery, Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, and Fauquier counties, as well as parts of the Shenandoah Valley and northern West Virginia.
Residents should avoid non-essential travel, charge devices now, and move valuables out of basements or ground-level spaces. If you encounter flooded roads, turn around—most flood fatalities occur in vehicles. Stay tuned to local alerts, as conditions may worsen quickly and additional warnings could be issued through early Friday.
Flooding risks will linger until showers taper off by dawn. Further updates or extended advisories are possible overnight.
