Weather Alert: Severe thunderstorm watch for DC area, high impact for outdoor venues

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.