Thunderstorm Warning, Flash Flood Warning Impacts Part Of NoVA

VIRGINIA — A severe thunderstorm warning is impacting parts of Northern Virginia Wednesday evening. A flash flood warning was issued for some areas as a flood watch continues for the greater region. Thousands of outages have been reported in Northern Virginia.

The National Weather Service said a severe thunderstorm was located over Oakton near Fairfax at 4:11 p.m. and is moving east. The severe thunderstorm warning applies to northwestern Fairfax County and City of Fairfax until 5 p.m. Wednesday. This includes Centreville, Reston, Annandale, South Riding, Herndon, Fairfax, Vienna, Lowes Island, Mantua, Pimmit Hills, the American Legion Bridge, Potomac, Burke, Oakton, Sterling, Chantilly, Tysons Corner, Wolf Trap, Great Falls and Merrifield.

Potential impacts in the warning area are winds up to 60 mph that may cause downed trees or branches as well as localized power outages. Unsecured objects outside may also blow about and cause damage.

The flash flood warning applies to southeastern Arlington County, northeastern Fairfax County, and the City of Alexandria. The National Weather Service's Doppler radar showed thunderstorms are causing heavy rain in the warning area. Between 1 to 2 inches of rain have accumulated and another 0.5 to 1.5 inches are possible.

Flash flooding is happening or expected to begin in the warning area. Potential locations are small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses and other poor drainage and low-lying areas. Drivers encountering flooded roads are encouraged to "turn around, don't drown."

The flood watch is in effect until 11 p.m. Wednesday as showers and thunderstorms may cause creeks, streams, rivers and other low-lying areas to flood. Much of the region is expected to receive 1 to 1.5 inches of rain, but localized amounts of 2 to 4 are possible. Flooding may result from heavy rain in a short amount of time.

Areas impacted around Northern Virginia are Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria, Loudoun County, Fairfax County, King George County, Fauquier County, Prince William County, Manassas, Manassas Park, Spotsylvania County and Stafford County.

According to Poweroutage.us, Alexandria was experiencing over 2,900 outages as of 5:30 p.m., followed by over 1,000 in Fauquier County and over 1,700 in Fairfax County. Arlington County has over 700 outages while Prince William County has over 3,00 and Loudoun County has over 200.

Dominion Energy customers should report outages online or to 866-366-4357. NOVEC customers should use their account to report outages or call 703-335-0500 or toll-free 1-888-335-0500.