The nation's capital is bracing for a bout of unsteady weather today with the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing a Hazardous Weather Outlook and a Flood Watch for the region. According to National Weather Service Washington D.C., there's a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms forecasted through the afternoon, with the potential for heavy rainfall that could lead to flash flooding in parts of central Virginia from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. today. D.C. area residents can anticipate mostly cloudy skies and a balmy high near 88 degrees.
As the day wanes into the evening, the National Weather Service is calling for a diminished chance of showers, but the risk of severe thunderstorms remains a concern, especially south of Washington D.C. "A few severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts are possible this afternoon to evening," advises the Hazardous Weather Outlook, noting that spotter should remain active, ready to report any instances of wind damage and flooding.
Moving into Sunday and beyond, the forecast appears more forgiving. D.C. will be treated to mostly sunny skies and a high temperature pushing a sizzling 93 degrees on Sunday, while the remainder of the week promises more sunshine and highs comfortably sitting in the mid to upper 80s.
The mid-July weather instability comes with the usual summer suspects—humidity levels are hanging high at 87 percent, and those venturing outside will feel the heat index reach above the actual thermometer readings. As the heat persists into the week, there doesn't seem to be a drop below the mid-sixties at night, with Thursday and Friday flirting with the mid-nineties during the day.
For those planning to spend their weekend by the waters, the outlook extends to maritime areas covering the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay and Tidal Potomac River. Boaters and beachgoers should be cautious and heed weather advisories. Meanwhile, the NWS encourages citizens to remain vigilant and report any weather-related emergencies as the region navigates through this pattern of summer storms.
