The situation: Scattered to numerous storms move through the DC region this afternoon into evening, generally from west to east, and mainly between 3 and 8 p.m. Approximately 4 to 7 p.m. looks like the most active time for the Beltway area. Heavy rain and frequent lightning are expected with any storms that develop, with some potential for damaging winds, hail, and an isolated tornado.
Scroll below live radar and warnings for our breaking updates...
3:45 pm.: Storms are organizing along the Interstate 81 corridor and headed eastward at about 20 mph. Severe thunderstorm warnings are focused from near Hagerstown and north, where storms have become more mature.
Additional warnings further south along the line are likely over the next hour as activity west of the area continues to strengthen and cross the Blue Ridge.
2:45 p.m.: The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the entire region, in effect until 10 p.m.
"Thunderstorms will develop this afternoon and spread across the watch area. Damaging winds may accompany the strongest storms. A tornado or two may also occur over the eastern half of the watch," the Weather Service said.
A severe thunderstorm watch means there are ingredients in place to support development of severe thunderstorms. A warning will be issued if a severe storm is occurring or imminent near a given location.
