Washington D.C. is bracing for wet conditions and potential flooding as rain continues to drench the capital. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Coastal Flood Warning that remains in effect until 2 PM EDT this afternoon. Heavy showers are expected, with new precipitation amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch possible today. Local residents should anticipate overcast skies and damp streets with temperatures hovering in the mid-50s.
Tonight, the likelihood of showers persists, mostly before 9 PM and could bring an additional quarter of an inch of rain. Commuters should be aware of patchy fog, and overall cloudy conditions, with temperatures slated to drop to around 46°F, according to the NWS report. Moving into Thursday, showers are predicted to continue mainly before noon but should clear up by nighttime, resulting in a sunny Friday.
In preparation for the inclement weather, coastal flood warnings are specifically targeted at Shoreline areas in Anne Arundel and Arlington Counties, as well as for Washington DC and the City of Alexandria. The warning is predicated on the forecast of one to two feet of inundation above ground level caused by tidal flooding, with the NWS warning of possible impacts including flood-prone property and waterfront road closures.
The NWS also announced a Gale Watch for Friday, signifying the possibility of very windy conditions that could compound the ongoing weather challenges. Moreover, as the city addresses the immediate forecast of downpours, and a wind chill that makes 46°F feel even colder, Washingtonians must be ready for potentially hazardous travel conditions. The next high tide at Washington Channel, which is expected around 10:15 AM, could further exacerbate the issue, the NWS warns.
Looking ahead, the district should expect a gradation in weather with the skies clearing up by Thursday night and a sunny Friday with a high near 61°F. The weekend may also provide a respite from the rain with partly sunny skies, though showers may return early next week. The NWS advises residents to take proper precautions to protect against flood-prone property and to heed travel warnings and road barricades.
