The time to get any patio furniture and other loose, outdoor objects inside is now.

At 2:29 p.m. today (Friday), the National Weather Service issued a High Wind Warning for the D.C. area, including Fairfax County, in anticipation of an encroaching storm.

Set to take effect from noon tomorrow (Saturday) until midnight, the alert warns of wind gusts that could reach up to 60 mph, raising the potential for power outages and travel difficulties.

…HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON SATURDAY TO MIDNIGHT EDT SATURDAY NIGHT…

* WHAT…Southwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph Saturday afternoon, becoming northwest 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph Saturday evening.

* WHERE…Portions of central and northern Maryland, The District of Columbia, and northern Virginia.

* WHEN…From noon Saturday to midnight EDT Saturday night. The strongest winds are expected Saturday evening.

* IMPACTS…Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” the NWS said. “If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.”

The storm has been moving east after slamming California with heavy winds, rain and snow earlier this week. Nearly 90 million people across 21 states are under a hazardous weather alert, as the Midwest and some Southern states face the risk of tornadoes just a week after one killed at least 26 people in Mississippi and Alabama.

[3/31 at 2:55 PM] The @NWS_BaltWash has upgraded the High Wind Watch to a Warning tomorrow (April 1). Sustained 20-30 mph winds can be expected, w/ gusts up to 50 mph Saturday afternoon. By the evening, sustained winds are expected to be 25-35 mph w/ gusts up to 60 mph. #VaWx pic.twitter.com/QKAzOkXvXU

— Ready Fairfax (@ReadyFairfax) March 31, 2023

More than 200 people in Great Falls have lost power, and a key road may be closed for hours after a rain storm this afternoon (Tuesday).

According to Fairfax Alerts, Beach Mill Road will be closed to traffic in both directions for at least six hours at the Springvale Road intersection due to downed power lines.

Dominion Energy has 279 customers in the area without power, according to its outage map.

The outage has been attributed to a broken pole, and crews are currently on the scene assessing the damage, though as of 6:30 p.m., there is no estimated time of restoration yet.

The storm otherwise appears to have had minimal impact in Fairfax County. Dulles International Airport reported 56 mph wind gusts, but less than a half-inch of rain was recorded in most areas, the Capital Weather Gang reported.

Fairfax County and areas nearby are under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch this evening.

The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch earlier today (Monday), cautioning flooding may occur this evening, and a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 10 p.m.

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations,” the Flood Watch reads. “Afternoon to evening showers and thunderstorms may produce very heavy rainfall capable of flash flooding. This could include multiple rounds of storms which would enhance the flood risk. Rainfall rates may reach 1 to 2 inches per hour, locally higher in spots. The D.C. and Baltimore metros will be the most susceptible given recent heavy rainfall the past couple of weeks.”

The National Weather Service advises residents to monitor forecasts and be prepared in case of flash floods.

Remember: when thunder roars, go indoors! #FCFRD #weather RT @ReadyFairfax: [1:48 PM] Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued until 10 PM this evening. pic.twitter.com/CpSsxhjLaB

— Fairfax County Fire/Rescue (@ffxfirerescue) July 18, 2022

What Was Behind Tuesday’s Storms — “Hundreds of trees were toppled and hundreds of thousands of people lost power Tuesday afternoon and evening as three storm complexes roared across the Washington region. The storms were fueled by hot and humid air that surged into the region, and were powered and sustained by strong high-altitude winds along an approaching cold front.” [Capital Weather Gang]

Firefighter Charged in Fairfax County Armed Robbery — “A D.C. firefighter has been arrested and charged with robbery after police say he brandished a gun and took someone’s property in Fairfax County, Virginia. Fairfax County Police said the robbery happened in May” [WTOP]

Police Investigate Dunkin’ Donuts Burglaries — Fairfax County and Alexandria City police are investigating at least three burglaries of Dunkin’ Donuts in Springfield, Belle Haven and Potomac Yard. The incidents all occurred during the morning of July 7, but police haven’t confirmed whether they were committed by the same people. [ALXnow]

Fairfax County Top in State for Population Growth — “In the last 50 years, Fairfax County saw the largest population increase in Virginia. During that same time, Norfolk saw the largest population decline…Mark Mather at the Population Reference Bureau says the next 50 years are not going to have the same trends.” [WVTF]

Same-Day Voter Registration Coming — “Same-day voter registration is taking effect in the state in time for the congressional midterms in November, a significant shift from the way Virginia elections have worked in the past…The new law will allow voters to fill out a registration form and cast a ballot after that deadline, up to and including Election Day.” [Virginia Mercury]

Food Drive Planned in West Springfield — “@MoveInterstate will be hosting a #FillATruck food drive at their #Springfield HQ located at 5801 Rolling Road, from 07/18-07/29. All donations will be donated to Ecumenical Community Helping Others (ECHO) and will help families in the #FairfaxCounty community.” [Supervisor Penny Gross/Twitter]

Langley HS Alum Coaches GMU Volleyball — “Years later, when receiving a second opportunity to join the George Mason University women’s volleyball team, Megan Shiffett Bachmann jumped at the chance and accepted. The 2008 Langley High School graduate recently was named the new head women’s coach of the Division I Mason program.” [Sun Gazette/Inside NoVA]

Park Authority Names Top Volunteers — “The Fairfax County Park Authority will honor 21 individual volunteers named 2022 Outstanding Volunteers and selected by their peers from across the park system…Approximately 4,000 volunteers give of their time and talent annually and take on a multitude of tasks.” [FCPA]

Tysons IT Consultant to Help Startups — “Booz Allen Hamilton has launched a venture capital unit that aims to help young companies speed the development of technologies used by the federal government…Booz Allen Ventures LLC will invest $100 million over five years in firms developing artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity and defense technologies, the company said.” [Washington Business Journal]

It’s Thursday — Partly cloudy throughout the day. High of 86 and low of 72. Sunrise at 5:56 am and sunset at 8:35 pm. [Weather.gov]

(Updated at 7:45 p.m.) More than 16,000 people in Fairfax County are currently without power after a rainstorm with high winds passed through the D.C. area earlier this evening (Tuesday).

As of 7 p.m., a total of 16,255 electricity users in the county had lost power, including 15,480 Dominion Energy customers, according to PowerOutage.US.

Dominion’s outage map indicates that the Great Falls and Wolf Trap area experienced the most extensive power losses, with roughly 4,246 customers affected. Other hard-hit areas include Tysons, Springfield, and Fair Lakes.

The estimated times of restoration suggest that the utility company will be working to address the outages throughout the night and into tomorrow morning (Wednesday).

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for southern Fairfax County until 8:30 p.m., forecasting 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-sized hail. According to an initial report, wind gusts from an earlier storm reached up to 70 mph in Centreville.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 10 p.m., and a Flood Watch is out for the D.C. area until midnight.

70 mph gust reported near Centreville around 530p. https://t.co/l2luoROK5W

— Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) July 12, 2022

As a reminder, if your power is out, report it. Don't assume a neighbor has reported the outage already. pic.twitter.com/gBumBmiEKK

— Ready Fairfax (@ReadyFairfax) July 12, 2022

Updated at 2:25 p.m. — The Flood Watch has been extended to 5 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday), per Fairfax County.

Earlier: A Flood Watch is on the horizon for much of the D.C. area, including Fairfax County.

The National Weather Service issued an alert at 5:20 a.m. today (Wednesday), warning that storms may lead to flash flooding starting around 3 p.m. The watch is currently set to remain in effect until 3 a.m. tomorrow.

Here is more from the alert:

* IMPACTS…Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise rapidly out of their banks. Flooding may occur quickly in poor drainage and urban areas.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…

– Multiple rounds of scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms are likely this afternoon and tonight. The most likely time period for thunderstorms producing heavy rain and potential flash flooding is this evening, but thunderstorms could develop as early as this afternoon, and may linger well into the night. Several inches of rain is possible in a short period of time, which would cause rapid rises of water.

Despite the risk of rain, the region’s usual July heat and humidity are out in full force, with temperatures potentially reaching the low 90s. The heat index is expected to peak near 100 degrees, according to the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department.

“If possible, make sure to stay hydrated and in shaded or air-conditioned places. Also check on your friends and neighbors,” the department said.

Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include fainting or dizziness, muscle cramps, and nausea or vomiting.

[7/6/22 at 8:26 AM] A Flood Watch is in effect from 3 PM this afternoon through late tonight as multiple rounds of scattered showers & thunderstorms are likely. The most
likely time period for thunderstorms producing heavy rain & potential flash flooding is this evening. #VaWx pic.twitter.com/LBziVn1KYE

— Ready Fairfax (@ReadyFairfax) July 6, 2022

Image via National Weather Service/Twitter

Fairfax County is under a Flood Watch until midnight.

The National Weather Service issued the watch this morning, noting flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible after 3 p.m.

Showers and thunderstorms are expected later this afternoon into the evening, according to the National Weather Service. There will be heavy rainfall at times, with predicted rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches within the span of a couple of hours, according to the Flood Watch.

A Hazardous Weather Outlook in the county states damaging winds and hail are also possible.

Showers and thunderstorms are likely, mainly between 3 PM and 11
PM. A Flash Flood Watch for potential flash flooding is in effect
near and west of Interstate 95 during this time. Isolated
instances of flooding can`t be ruled out further east.

In addition, a few storms may become severe with damaging wind
gusts and large hail. An isolated tornado can`t be ruled out.

The #Flood Watch for potential flash flooding this afternoon and evening has been expanded eastward into the I-95 corridor. Heavy #rain from thunderstorms may lead to rapid rises of water in creeks, streams, and in poor drainage areas. pic.twitter.com/MtfzQDadcQ

— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) June 22, 2022

[6/22/22 at 1:30 PM] A Flood Watch is in effect this afternoon until 11 PM. Heavy rain from thunderstorms may lead to rapid rises of water in creeks, streams, and in poor drainage areas. Please stay weather aware. #VaWx pic.twitter.com/oSgtmhUVd0

— Ready Fairfax (@ReadyFairfax) June 22, 2022

Updated at 6:50 p.m. — The Severe Thunderstorm Watch was canceled at 6:41 p.m., according to a National Weather Service alert.

Earlier: Fairfax County is under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, and part of the county is also under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.

The county is under a severe thunderstorm watch until midnight, according to the National Weather Service. There’s also a severe thunderstorm warning for west central Fairfax County, including Burke and Chantilly, until 6:15 p.m.

“Damaging winds will cause some trees and large branches to fall,” the warning reads. “This could injure those outdoors, as well as damage homes and vehicles. Roadways may become blocked by downed trees. Localized power outages are possible. Unsecured light objects may become projectiles.”

The watch was issued at 5:11 p.m. Ready Fairfax said to expect damaging winds and large hail. Isolated tornadoes are possible.

[6/16/22 at 3:49 PM] A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for Fairfax County until midnight. Damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes are possible. Remain weather aware and be ready to seek shelter if a warning is issued. #VaWx pic.twitter.com/xumKW8uFZa

— Ready Fairfax (@ReadyFairfax) June 16, 2022

Just a bit of lightning over Reston. @capitalweather pic.twitter.com/yTHBpRQKOj

— Chris Harrod (@thechrisharrod) June 16, 2022

The full watch is below.

Event:
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
Alert:
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 378 REMAINS VALID UNTIL MIDNIGHT EDT
TONIGHT FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS
IN VIRGINIA THIS WATCH INCLUDES 22 COUNTIES
IN CENTRAL VIRGINIA
ALBEMARLE CITY OF CHARLOTTESVILLE
CITY OF FREDERICKSBURG GREENE
KING GEORGE NELSON ORANGE
SPOTSYLVANIA
IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA
ARLINGTON CITY OF ALEXANDRIA CITY OF FAIRFAX
CITY OF FALLS CHURCH CITY OF MANASSAS
CITY OF MANASSAS PARK CULPEPER
FAIRFAX FAUQUIER LOUDOUN
PRINCE WILLIAM STAFFORD
IN NORTHWEST VIRGINIA
MADISON RAPPAHANNOCK
THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF ALEXANDRIA, ARLINGTON, CHANTILLY,
CHARLOTTESVILLE, CROZET, CULPEPER, DAHLGREN, FAIRFAX,
FALLS CHURCH, FALMOUTH, FREDERICKSBURG, GORDONSVILLE, GREENFIELD,
HERNDON, LEESBURG, MADISON, MANASSAS, MANASSAS PARK, MCLEAN,
ORANGE, RESTON, SPOTSYLVANIA COURTHOUSE, STANARDSVILLE, STERLING,
WARRENTON, WASHINGTON, AND WOODBRIDGE.
Instructions:

Target Area:
Albemarle
Arlington
City of Alexandria
City of Charlottesville
City of Fairfax
City of Falls Church
City of Fredericksburg
City of Manassas
City of Manassas Park
Culpeper
Fairfax
Fauquier
Greene
King George
Loudoun
Madison
Nelson
Orange
Prince William
Rappahannock
Spotsylvania
Stafford

Photo via Breno Machado/Unsplash

(Updated at 3:40 p.m.) While the weather has died down for now, almost 800 people in Fairfax County lost electricity when a thunderstorm passed through the D.C. region this morning, bringing flood and tornado risks.

Dominion Energy has 761 customers currently without power, as of 3:20 p.m., according to PowerOutage.US.

The biggest outage is in Chantilly between Lees Corner and Stringfellow roads, near the regional library, Dominion’s power outage map shows. The utility company has dispatched a crew to investigate the cause of the power loss, which has affected 272 customers.

Another 227 customers have been impacted by an outage along Stuart Mill Road in the Little Difficult Run area of Oakton, which has also seen smaller outages along Bennett Road. There are downed wires there, Dominion spokesperson Peggy Fox said.

Outage Alert:
1,546 customer outages in Northern Va. from today's strong storm.
▶️Wires down on Bennett Rd, Fairfax; crews on scene.

▶️Always assume downed wires are energized & dangerous–stay at least 30 feet away.
▶️Report immediately to @DominionEnergy at 1-866-DOM-HELP

— Peggy Fox (@PeggyDomEnergy) May 27, 2022

There is also a larger power outage in Mantua affecting 186 customers. Among them appears to be Mantua Elementary School. Like in Oakton, a crew has been dispatched, but there’s no estimated time of restoration yet.

A Flood Watch remains in effect for the county, with more showers and thunderstorms potentially emerging later this afternoon and evening.

More than 2,000 people in Fairfax County are without electricity after bursts of rain and hail swept through the D.C. area last night (Sunday).

Dominion Energy has reported outages affecting 2,636 customers, as of 9:50 a.m., according to PowerOutage.US.

According to the utility company’s outage map, the damage is widespread across the eastern half of the county, from Wolf Trap in the north to Newington in the south, but the individual outages are mostly limited in their impact.

The largest outage is in the Kings Park West area, just south of Braddock Road and north of Guinea Road. Crews are currently working to address a broken pole that took out power for 271 customers. The estimated time of restoration is 6-11 p.m.

Dominion Energy spokesperson Peggy Fox reported earlier this morning (Monday) that 60 mph winds knocked down trees, branches, and utility poles across Northern Virginia, where the company is working on 92 projects.

Neighboring residents in Arlington and Alexandria are also still dealing with the storm’s aftermath

Outage Update: 7,680 customers out in NoVa, down from 25,000+ last night.
60+ mph winds knocked down trees, branches, poles– We have 92 projects with damage in Nova.@DominionEnergy crews are working as safely and quickly as possible to make repairs. ETRs will be posted ASAP.

— Peggy Fox (@PeggyDomEnergy) May 23, 2022