Cloudy skies and temperatures in the mid-70s greeted Washington early Sunday, but the bigger story is still ahead: multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected across the District through tonight. The high should reach about 84 degrees, while forecasters warn that the strongest storms could bring very heavy rain, damaging wind gusts and isolated tornadoes.
The current forecast package lists no watch or warning for Washington, but the National Weather Service says severe weather and flash flooding remain possible in the broader Baltimore-Washington region. That makes Sunday a day to keep weather alerts close, especially for anyone heading out before the evening.
Rain Arrives Before The Afternoon Commute
Showers are expected through late Sunday morning, followed by a chance of thunderstorms from around 11 a.m. through the afternoon. South winds will run 6 to 10 mph, with gusts reaching 22 mph, and rainfall totals are generally expected to range from a quarter-inch to a half-inch.
Localized downpours could be much heavier if storms repeatedly track over the same neighborhoods. Drivers should avoid flooded roads, and anyone who hears thunder should move indoors rather than wait for the sky to make the decision.
Storms Could Linger Into Sunday Night
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected before 7 p.m. Sunday, with more showers and thunderstorms possible from about 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. Monday. The overnight low should fall only to around 73 degrees, keeping conditions muggy even after the daytime heat fades.
Forecasters say repeated storms could create serious flooding problems in urban and poor-drainage areas, with isolated locations potentially seeing several inches of rain. The most intense storms could also produce strong, damaging wind gusts, so outdoor plans should include a way to get inside quickly.
Sunny Break Arrives Monday Before Storm Chances Return
Monday brings a sharp turnaround, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 90 degrees, followed by a partly cloudy night near 72. Tuesday looks sunnier and slightly cooler, with a high around 88 and an overnight low near 69.
Heat returns Wednesday with another high near 90, but shower and thunderstorm chances rise again Wednesday night and continue into Thursday. The forecast keeps additional storm chances around Friday and Saturday, when highs should settle near 85 degrees.
