WASHINGTON, D.C. (7News) — A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of the Washington, D.C. area as conditions become more favorable for strong to severe thunderstorms through this evening. Anyone taking part in outdoor events or activities through the evening should have a quick evacuation and shelter plan in place before storms arrive. Some storms could produce wind gusts up to 70 mph, frequent lightning, torrential downpours, and rapidly changing conditions.

The setup includes increasing heat and humidity, a cold front approaching from the west, and stronger winds aloft moving into the region. That combination will help storms develop and organize as they move across the area. For the D.C. metro area, the greatest storm threat is expected through 10 p.m., with an isolated storm or a few showers lingering closer to midnight.

Damaging wind gusts are the main concern. A few storms may be strong enough to bring down trees, temporary structures and power lines, leading to scattered power outages. Hail is also possible in a few storms. While the tornado threat is low, it is not zero, so any tornado warning should be taken seriously.

The Storm Prediction Center has the area under a Slight Risk (Level 2 out of 5) for severe thunderstorms.

Watch vs. Warning

A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop. It is a heads-up to pay attention and be ready; a warning means severe weather is happening or about to happen. That is when you need to take action.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch vs. Warning

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for storms that could produce damaging wind gusts of 58 mph or higher and/or hail at least 1 inch in diameter, while a severe thunderstorm warning means a severe storm is happening or has been detected by radar. If a warning is issued for your location, move indoors immediately and stay away from windows.

Tornado Watch vs. Warning

A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. It does not mean a tornado is happening. Take immediate action when a tornado warning is issued, as it means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar.

DC Weather: Severe storms possible ahead of UFC Freedom 250

The D.C. region is on weather alert as heat and humidity return ahead of a cold front that could spark strong to severe storms later in the day. FOX 5’s Glenn Talbert breaks down the timing, what to expect and why people should stay aware of watches, warnings and advisories, especially with UFC Freedom 250 set for Sunday night at the White House.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The D.C. region is on weather alert as heat, humidity and an approaching cold front could bring strong storms later in the day, potentially affecting evening plans for fans heading out to watch UFC Freedom 250.

What we know:

FOX 5 meteorologist Glenn Talbert said a cold front will interact with a warm, humid air mass over the region, creating the potential for strong storms later today.

The day is starting warm, with temperatures in the 70s across parts of the region and winds from the south-southwest.

The main storm threat is expected later in the day, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours.

Storm threat

Some storms could become severe, according to the FOX 5 forecast.

The strongest storms could bring heavy rain, gusty winds and dangerous lightning.

Talbert said the timing remains somewhat uncertain and will depend on how quickly the front moves through the region.

UFC Freedom 250 weekend plans

Anyone heading to UFC Freedom 250 events in D.C. should keep a close eye on the forecast before leaving home.

Storm timing remains uncertain, but the late afternoon and evening hours are the main concern. Fans should allow extra time, check for weather alerts and be ready to move indoors quickly if storms develop.

UFC White House Octagon tour offers first look at setup

Advertisement

What’s next:

The FOX 5 Weather Team will continue tracking the front and any storms that develop.

In the main event, undefeated UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria defends his title against interim titleholder Justin Gaethje. In the co-main event, former UFC middleweight and light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira moves up in pursuit of a title in a third weight division when he faces Ciryl Gane for interim heavyweight gold.

How To Watch UFC Freedom 250 In Your Country

UFC Freedom 250, presented by Crypto.com and RAM, takes place Sunday, June 14, live from the White House in Washington, D.C. The event begins at 8pm ET/5pm PT and streams live on Paramount+ in the United States.

UFC Freedom 250 Results

(This page will be updated live throughout the event.)