Severe Storms in DC Region's Thursday Forecast; Flash Flood Risk in Maryland

Hope you didn't allow recent cool weather deceive you. It is almost summer, and the D.C. region went through another severe weather outbreak on Thursday.

Thunderstorm Warnings

The National Weather Service announced a number of thunderstorm warnings throughout the afternoon and into the early evening, as powerful storms rolled through the area. They lifted all the warnings before 8 p.m.

The storms accompanied by wind gusts of 60 mph and quarter-sized hail were identified in some of the bands of storms, according to the weather service. Forecasters projected the storms to last all through the night, bring about power outages and even a tornado in regions northwest of the District. I

While most of the critical weather has left the area, Storm Team4 Meteorologist Mike Stinneford revealed there is still a potential for a scattered shower or thunderstorm prior to midnight with a patchy fog.

Friday will see extra scattered risk of afternoon storms prior to the settling of high pressure into the area this weekend, with highs in the mid to upper 80s - great for exterior plans, and a welcome recovery from the sluggish high temperatures of last weekend which wouldn't have been out of place in autumn.

Also Read: Lake Charles Slammed: Flash Flooding Emergencies Declared in Louisiana, Texas

Forecast

Thursday night - Widely scattered showers and thunderstorms that will end before midnight. Overnight Patchy fog. Lows in the 60s to lower 70s.

Friday - Clouds and rain. Scattered thunderstorms are likely. Highs in the upper 70s to close 80.

Saturday - Mostly warmer and sunny, not too moist. Highs in the low to mid 80s.

Sunday - Mostly sunny. Hot and slightly more humid. Highs in the upper 80s to close 90.

Maryland is prone to flooding from several different sources. Flash floods are likely to occur after short periods of heavy rain and usually affect small streams and creeks. Widespread flooding comes from more prolonged constant rain and is likely to affect larger rivers and streams.

Major rivers like the Potomac and Susquehanna often get to flood stages due to incidents in distant areas of their watershed. Finally, hurricanes and tropical storms can bring about surges that create tidal flooding along bays in Maryland and their tributaries.

Before a Flood

• Ensure your insurance policy covers flooding. Even tenants are entitled to flood insurance.

• Evacuate valuables and furniture to higher floors as floodwater increases.

• Make sure the car gas tank is filled in case evacuation is needed.

• Stay enlightened about weather conditions....flash flooding can take place in just minutes!

After a Flood

• Avoid eating or drinking anything that has come into contact with flood water.

• Follow the instruction of emergency officials on safe water consumption. You may have to boil your water before use.

• Clean and check electrical equipment before use.

• Inform proper authorities of broken utilities if any.

For more news, updates about thunderstorm, flooding and similar topics don't forget to follow Nature World News!