Arlington County and the D.C. area are bracing themselves for a day of hot, humid, and stormy weather. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory, a Flood Watch, and a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, effective from 1:45 p.m. this afternoon until 7 p.m. this evening. The watches are prompted by the possibility of strong storms and torrential rainfall later today, following a sweltering afternoon.
- Heat Advisory: Portion of the D.C. area, central, northeast, northern, and southern Maryland, and central and northern Virginia.
- Flood Watch: The entire D.C. area, including Arlington County, and surrounding areas in Maryland and Virginia.
- Severe Thunderstorm Watch: The entire D.C. area, including Arlington County, and surrounding areas in Maryland and Virginia.
The National Weather Service has issued the following guidelines for the area:
| Weather Watch | Issued | Expires | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Advisory | 1002 AM EDT Tue Jul 8 2025 | 7 PM EDT Tue Jul 8 2025 | Heat index values up to 106 expected. |
| Flood Watch | 959 AM EDT Tue Jul 8 2025 | TBD | Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. |
| Severe Thunderstorm Watch | 1:45 PM EDT Tue Jul 8 2025 | TBD | Strong storms and torrential rainfall possible. |
To prepare for the stormy weather, residents are advised to take the following precautions:
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Stay in an air-conditioned room to avoid heat-related illnesses.
- Stay out of the sun to prevent heat exhaustion.
- Check up on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly and young children.
In addition, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends that individuals who will be working outdoors during the storm take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments to reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service also provides the following information for flood safety and preparedness:
The American Red Cross recommends that individuals take the following steps to prepare for a flood:
– Move valuables to higher ground. – Unplug electronics and appliances to prevent damage from power surges. – Have a plan in place in case of evacuation. – Stay informed about the flood situation through local news and weather reports.
Residents are advised to monitor the forecast and be prepared to take action if a Flash Flood Warning is issued.
The Importance of Heat and Flood Safety
Heat and flood safety are crucial to prevent serious health risks and property damage. Heat-related illnesses can be fatal, while flash flooding can cause significant damage to homes and businesses. The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to stay safe during severe weather events.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Residents are advised to stay informed about the weather forecast and any warnings or advisories issued by the National Weather Service. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can reduce their risk of injury or property damage.
Additional Resources
For more information on heat and flood safety, residents can visit the National Weather Service website at www.weather.gov or contact their local emergency management agency. By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed, residents can stay safe and prepared for the stormy weather that is expected to hit the D.C. area today.
