The Washington DC region is heading into a stormy Today after enduring one of the most oppressive stretches of heat and humidity in recent memory. A cold front moving in from the west is expected to collide with unstable tropical air still sitting over the DMV, producing conditions ripe for strong to severe thunderstorms from late afternoon through late evening.
Both the DC News Now and CBS Baltimore weather teams have designated Today a First Alert Weather Day, reflecting the elevated risk across the DC region. The Storm Prediction Center has placed the entire DMV under a slight risk, rated 2 out of 5, for severe weather.
What forecasters are watching
The main concern going into the afternoon is damaging winds, with gusts potentially reaching 60 mph in the strongest cells. Forecasters say frequent lightning, heavy downpours, and large hail are also possible. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, though the primary threat remains straight-line wind damage.
Temperatures SToday will climb into the lower to mid 90s before storms arrive, with breezy southerly winds keeping humidity elevated throughout the morning and early afternoon. Heat index values could push well above 100 degrees ahead of the storms, making the hours before the front arrives uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Timing matters for Today’s plans
Storms are expected to develop first in the western counties of DC around midday, pushing east through the afternoon. The Beltway area is expected to see the most active weather between roughly 3 p.m. and midnight. The cold front should clear the coast before dawn Monday, bringing a noticeable drop in humidity overnight…