Washington D.C. residents and visitors are advised to brace themselves for potential flooding as the National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory and Coastal Flood Watch for the shoreline of the District of Columbia. According to the latest reports, the advisory remains in effect until 5 PM EDT this afternoon, with an ongoing watch that stretches from this evening through Wednesday afternoon. Low-lying areas could experience up to one to two feet of inundation due to tidal flooding.

The weather service warns of immediate impacts, specifically along the Southwest Waterfront where the DC Seafood Market is located. Parts of the Hains Point Loop Road are also at risk of approaching waters and will likely be closed for safety. Residents should take heed of the advice and not navigate around barricades or drive through water of unknown depth, and to protect property prone to flooding. With tides expected to be two and a half to three feet above normal, the next high tides at Washington Channel are scheduled for 9:46 AM and 10:10 PM.

In addition to coastal flooding concerns, the weather outlook for the area is predominantly cloudy with a chance of showers over the next several days. The National Weather Service forecast indicates a 30% chance of rain this evening, increasing to a 70% likelihood of showers on Wednesday, with similar percentages carrying through to the weekend. Daytime high temperatures will hover in the mid-50s, offering little respite from the damp conditions.

The announcement by the National Weather Service also extends a cautionary note, urging the public to prepare for these conditions. Several areas are under a flood warning or watch, including Anne Arundel and St. Mary's counties, with a particular watch in effect for DC's SW Waterfront starting this afternoon. "Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property," the advisory states, pointing to the seriousness of the tidal flood threat.