Severe Weather Alert: Strong Storms Expected in Washington, D.C. Region
• The Washington, D.C. area is under a Level 2 (Slight Risk) severe weather alert for Thursday, August 20,
• The Storm Prediction Center warns of strong to severe thunderstorms likely between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., with the highest risk along and east of the I-95 corridor. Afternoon temperatures are expected to reach the upper 80s to around 90°F (31-32°C), with high humidity making it feel like the mid-90s (34-35°C). The atmospheric conditions, including high moisture and instability, are conducive to organized thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.
Impact & Risks
The primary threats include damaging wind gusts, large hail, and localized flash flooding, particularly in urban and flood-prone areas. Some locations may receive over 1 inch of rain in a short period, increasing the risk of flash flooding. Frequent lightning and a low-end tornado threat are also possible. The strongest storms are expected to impact areas along and east of I-95, including Washington, D.C., during the late afternoon and early evening.
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