Flood Watches Up as Early Season Storm Expected to Bring 3 Inches of Rain

As Tropical Storm Andrea approaches, the map with forecast rain totals for Virginia tells a story of this early season storm.

Up to three inches of rain is expected in our area between 8 p.m. through the day Friday, all coming from the first named tropical storm system just five days into the Atlantic Hurricane season that spans June 1 to Nov. 30.

A flash flood watch is in effect between now and 10 p.m. Friday for Prince William County, Stafford County, and the Greater Manassas area. To the southeast in places like Virginia Beach, Tropical Storm Warnings are in effect for that area where winds are expected to gust up to 30 mph on Friday.

In a press statement released Thursday, officials in Prince William County remain concerned about flooding:

With the onset of Tropical Storm Andrea, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggest the following flood safety tips to protect you and your family should a flood occur:Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio to receive warnings from the National Weather Service, or monitor your favorite news source. A Flood/Flash Flood Watch means flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area. A Flood/Flash Flood Warning means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.

— Leave areas subject to flooding and seek higher ground.

— Avoid underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements during or after heavy rains.

— Turn Around, Don’t Drown (TADD) nws.noaa.gov/floodsafety/tadd.shtml

— DO NOT attempt to cross flowing streams.

— NEVER drive through flooded roadways – flood water may have damaged or washed away the road and six inches of water can stall a vehicle.

— If you come to water that’s above your ankles, stop and turn around. You can be swept off your feet by as little as six inches of rushing water.

— Develop a family evacuation plan. Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of flooding.

— Keep all family cars fueled. Stock bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit.

— For a flood safety checklist, visit American Red Cross at redcross.org.

— If your vehicle stalls, get out and move to higher ground.

The bulk of Andrea’s effects will be felt here tomorrow when heavy downpours and thunderstorms are expected in the region. The thunderstorm threat will hang around through Friday evening.

On Saturday and Sunday, more thunderstorms will be possible with high temperatures in the 80s both days.