Washington D.C. residents and Memorial Day revelers should brace for potential flooding and severe thunderstorms, as the National Weather Service has issued a series of weather advisories. The forecast predicts isolated showers and possible thunderstorms throughout the day, turning into likely thunderstorms after 2 pm with a chance of heavy rainfall. According to the National Weather Service advisory, there's a 70% chance of precipitation, with new rainfall amounts between a quarter and half an inch possible during the day, and the temperature peaking at a muggy 87 degrees.
Amid the overcast evening skies, the threat isn't over, with the National Weather Service reporting a 60% chance of showers and maybe another thunderstorm before clearing up towards midnight. The quick-moving storms, capable of causing considerable wind damage, large hail, and even an isolated tornado, could strike the region this afternoon and early this evening. With the South wind gusting as high as 20 mph, "Heavy rain from thunderstorms may lead to isolated instances of flooding this afternoon and early evening," National Weather Service warns.
Looking forward, the forecast for Tuesday through Sunday seems less threatening, with the NWS mentioning no hazardous weather expected at this time. However, this respite follows the ominous outlook for today, in which weather watchers should be vigilant as "Spotter activation will likely be needed this afternoon," the National Weather Service states.
The District of Columbia is also under a coastal flood advisory, where low lying areas could see up to one foot of inundation above ground level. The National Weather Service cautions that "Shoreline inundation is expected along portions of the seawall adjacent to Ohio Drive and the Hains Point Loop Road, and near the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial." Flood-prone property should take protective actions, especially around high tide at Washington Channel forecasted for 11:18 AM today. For those who must travel, the National Weather Service advises extra caution as some roads may be closed and cautions against driving through floodwaters or around barricades.
