Press release:
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) has forecast a Code Orange air day for tomorrow, August 27 in part of the metropolitan Washington region, including DC and Northern Virginia as well as Suburban DC in Maryland (Prince George’s County and Lower Montgomery County). Code Orange levels mean the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Stafford County, including Aquia Harbour and King George, effective until 3:15 p.m. today. This warning comes as a series of storm clusters, currently over Johnstown, PA, and extending across Lake Erie, are expected to intensify as they approach the region.
As of 9:45 a.m., satellite and radar imagery showed several clusters of showers accompanied by occasional lightning moving southeastward.
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the region until 10 p.m. on Sunday, August 18. A slow-moving cold front will bring showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. The highest chances of precipitation are expected this afternoon and evening as the front moves across the area.
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch in effect from 6:19 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9. The watch follows multiple reports of a tornado touching down in Caroline County yesterday evening.
The storm is predicted to bring significant rainfall to the area, with risks of flooding possible. The Rappahannock River last flooded downtown Fredericksburg on Jan. 10, 2024. It crested at 19.1 feet at 5:30pm, impacting Old Mill Park and encroaching trails along Fall Hill Avenue. Fredericksburg has already closed Old Mill Park in anticipation of Tropical Storm Debby.
To mitigate the effects of drought, Fauquier County residents, businesses, and government agencies should adopt various water conservation practices, including efficient use of household appliances and mindful irrigation techniques.
Press release:
Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Spotsylvania Courthouse VA and Spotsylvania VA until 6:45 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/9oNRSK5roo
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) June 30, 2024
