WASHINGTON — After a day of relentlessly high temperatures, storms are moving through the DMV Tuesday night. More strong storms are expected Wednesday, according to the WUSA9 Weather Team. Here's how the storms unfolded.
Earlier Monday, an excessive heat warning was issued as the heat index values reached temperatures of up to 110 degrees. As evening approached, thunderstorms began to move through the area.
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings were issued for Montgomery, Prince George's, Loudoun, Arlington, Fairfax, Culpeper, Spotsylvania, and Alexandria Counties, as well as D.C.
WUSA9 meteorologists say the main threat is gusty winds.
Power Outages:
As of 8 a.m., according to Dominion Energy's power outage map, about 540 customers are without power in Northern Virginia. Pepco's outage map still shows 50 customers are without power in D.C. and Maryland Tuesday morning.
There is no word at this time on when power may be restored.
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.
Damages:
Montgomery County Police were called to East West Highway for downed wires that have closed the eastbound lanes between Meadowbrook Lane and Grubb Road Monday night. Lanes have since reopened.
DC Fire and EMS responded to 33rd & Tennyson Street, Northwest where multiple trees fall, damaging at least 10 homes. No injuries have been reported. Officials from Pepco were also reporting downed power lines in the area from the trees.
10 homes damages by fallen trees in Northwest
According to Montgomery County Fire and EMS spokesman Pete Piringer, a house was struck by lightning in Gaithersburg, igniting a fire. The fire started in the attic of the large two-story home on Braemar Crescent Way. It has since been extinguished by the family who lived inside the house were displaced.
Additionally, Piringer said a tree and wires came down in Poolesville. Those wires appear to be burning.
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.
