WASHINGTON — WUSA9's weather team says the worst of the severe weather is over Thursday following strong storms that rolled through the area Wednesday evening. Crews continue to address power outages and clean up damage from the storm Thursday. It will be much cooler Thursday with lingering showers
Power Outages:
As of 8 a.m., according to Dominion Energy's power outage map, more than 35,000 customers are without power.
In Fauquier County, a storm moved into the area just before 4:30 p.m. and knocked out the power to more than 16,000 customers, which is nearly half of the county.
"We are encouraging residents to stay home if possible as many roads have storm debris and fallen trees," said the Fauquier County Sheriff's Office on Facebook. "Report power outages to your company provider and plan for possible extended power loss."
There is no word at this time on when power may be restored.
More than 9,000 customers were still without power in Fauquier County Thursday morning.
A power outage can be caused by a myriad of things but it is important to be as prepared as you possibly can, especially during severe weather. Extended power outages can impact everyone from a home to an entire community. It can cause issues with communication, prevent the use of medical devices, impact access to water and cause food to spoil while grocery stores may be closed.
Dominion Energy says residents should not connect any portable generators to a home's electrical system. Under no circumstances should you ever bring a generator into your home in order to create heat. Odorless and colorless carbon monoxide gas from gas-fueled heaters and generators can build up, resulting in injuries or even death.
Damages:
The Fauquier Sheriff's Office says trees, powerlines, and poles were damaged in the afternoon storm.
Wednesday night, crews were responding to "dozens" of calls of service for fallen wires, tree debris and some building damage. Downed trees and other damage was still being reported Thursday morning.
The Fauquier County Sheriff's Office asked for drivers to be mindful of debris left in roadways during their morning commute as cleanup continues. Several roads were closed or down to one lane Thursday morning.
"If anyone sees something please contact the Warrenton Fauquier Joint Communications Center at (540) 347-3300 so the deputies can check and get the property cleared from the roadway," the sheriff's office said in a statement.
Clyde Simpson, of Marshall, said his sister’s home was condemned by Fauquier County officials due to the damage it sustained during the storm. A tree fell on top of her house, before letting rainwater damage the structure inside.
Simpson said no one was hurt in the incident.
“One of the big tree limbs went right through the center-right to the second floor and you can go right in the house and see it right in front of the fireplace mantle,” he said.
It is important to know how to prepare and stay safe during severe weather. There are several ways you can make sure you are ready.
- High winds regularly down trees and heavy branches in the DMV region, so avoid standing or walking under tree canopies.
- Be supplied: Have medical equipment, medical supplies or any critical medications on hand and enough for 5-7 days.
- Figure out how and where everyone will meet up with each other if you get separated.
- Sign up for text alerts/weather warnings that may be offered by your locality.
- Secure garbage cans, lawn furniture or anything that could cause damage.
Peggy Fox with Dominion Energy gives tips for how to stay safe.