Washington is a tornado target during East Coast storms on Monday.
Severe Storms Expected in Washington, D.C.
Get ready, Washington! The nation’s capital is about to experience a series of intense summer storms that will sweep across the East Coast on Monday. But these storms aren’t your average thunderstorms – they have the potential to bring rare tornadoes and damaging winds to the district.
As we speak, approximately 15 million people are under a tornado watch, which will remain in effect until 9 p.m. This watch covers not only Washington, D.C., but also parts of Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, and Maryland. According to ABC News, the bullseye for tornadoes stretches from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, all the way to Washington, D.C., and into the Appalachian Mountains.
Severe Weather Warning
The Washington Post’s Capital Weather Gang took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to warn residents about the severity of the upcoming storms. They stated, “We are under a level 4 out of 5 risk [for severe weather]. The last time that happened locally was June 13, 2013; the previous time before that was the June 29, 2012 derecho. So the @NWSSPC sees ingredients in place for numerous dangerous storms in the area.”
With a level four rating, the district is facing a “moderate warning” for severe weather. A level five, on the other hand, would indicate a “high risk” for severe weather conditions.
“REMEMBER.. A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area,”
the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center emphasized on Monday. “Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.”
The National Weather Service also warned that wind gusts from regular thunderstorms could exceed 75 mph. These forecasts are a result of remnants from storms that hit the middle of the United States. Over the weekend, storm damage was reported from Kansas to Illinois and even in Birmingham, Alabama. In fact, high winds caused power outages for over 40,000 people in Alabama on Sunday.
Stay Safe During Severe Weather
When it comes to dealing with severe weather and severe weather warnings, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some tips:
- Charge your devices ahead of time so you can unplug electronics during a heavy storm.
- Secure loose items to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
- Avoid driving on the roads when severe weather hits, and turn back if you encounter flooded streets.
- Move indoors when you hear thunder and see frequent lightning flashes.
- Enable notifications on your phone to stay up-to-date on the latest advisories.
If a tornado or high winds warning is issued and the weather has been spotted, it’s crucial to seek shelter indoors and away from windows. The lowest area of your residence, such as a basement or cellar, is the safest place to be. Don’t forget to move your pets to safety as well, if time permits.
Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s weather these storms together, Washington!
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