Severe weather and flooding will linger across part of the eastern U.S. this evening.
A disturbance and its cold front will continue to push through the Mid-Atlantic during the evening hours. Along and, and with an unstable atmosphere present, thunderstorms will erupt, some of which will turn severe.
Areas from Trenton, N.J. and Philadelphia to Baltimore southward to Richmond will need to watch for severe weather this evening as the government’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, for these areas.
Damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 mph and quarter-sized hail will be the primary threats from thunderstorms this evening. However, an isolated tornado or two cannot be ruled out, especially across portions of central and southern Virginia into north-central North Carolina.
A Tornado Watch remains across the Mid-Atlantic from Maryland to the Atlantic coast.
In addition to the storms, locally heavy rainfall will accompany this front across portions of the Mid-Atlantic. Rain totals up to 2 inches will be possible from northern Virginia to northern New Jersey. A few unlucky locations could see rain amounts of 3-4 inches, with localized instances of urban flooding. As such, a Flood Watch is in effect from this evening into tonight. Remember, if you approach a flooded roadway, it is always best to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!”
Strong to locally severe storms will remain possible across parts of the Mid-Atlantic into the Carolinas on Saturday. Small hail and gusty winds will be the main threats on Saturday. A few gusty thunderstorms will also be possible across Florida on Saturday as a cold front sinks southward.
Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.
The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"
