WASHINGTON — Nasty weather will continue until 9 or 10 p.m. tonight as a strong low pressure system brings heavy rain and whips up strong, gusty winds. The WUSA9 Weather Team has issued a Weather Watch Alert.
Key Points
- Moderate to heavy rain will continue until 10 p.m.
- 1-3" of rain with flooding possible.
- Wind gusts 50 - 60 mph until 10 p.m..
- Isolated downed trees and limbs, potentially bringing down power lines.
- Coastal, street and river flooding.
The heaviest rain and strongest wind will occur from 5 p.m. through 10 p.m. This is when the winds could gust to 50 to 60 mph+.
Rain will gradually move out after 10 p.m. with only a few stray showers lingering overnight. It will remain blustery overnight Tuesday into Wednesday, with gusts to 30 mph.
January 9 rainfall records
National Airport (DCA): 1.87” (1879)
Dulles Airport (IAD): 1.39” (1964)
BWI Airport: 1.64” (1879)
Impacts
With 1-3" of rain falling on already water-logged ground, flooding will be possible especially around small streams, rivers, and creeks. There will be ponding of water on some roads. Visibility will be greatly reduced during the periods of heavier rain in the afternoon and evening, especially after it gets dark.
Light objects in yards and on patios may blow around. A few weak trees could fall or be uprooted and a few branches could snap. Outdoor activities will need to be postponed.
ALERTS
Food Watch
Minor street, basement and river/stream flooding is possible.
Coastal Flood Warning
The worst coastal flooding is expected during the high tide cycle between 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday. A minor coastal flood threat will persist through Thursday due to gusty onshore wind.
High Wind Warning
Areas under a High Wind Warning could see winds gust up to 60 mph. The Wind Advisory is in effect for winds gusting up to 50 mph.
TUESDAY FUTURECAST
