WASHINGTON (7News) — If you have outdoor plans Tuesday afternoon, you’ll want to keep a close eye on the sky.
First Alert Weather has declared Tuesday a Weather Alert Day as a powerful storm system moves into the Washington, D.C. area. The greatest threat for severe weather is expected between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., although a few storms could linger into the evening.
The Storm Prediction Center places much of the D.C. region under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms.
What Will Make These Storms Strong?
Several ingredients are coming together at the same time:
- Very warm, humid air will build across the region.
- Moisture levels will be unusually high, meaning storms can produce torrential rain in a short amount of time.
- A strengthening storm system approaching from the Great Lakes will provide the lift needed for thunderstorms to rapidly develop.
- Winds high in the atmosphere will help storms organize and become stronger.
Think of it like stacking firewood, adding lighter fluid, and then striking a match. Once storms begin developing, they could strengthen quickly.
Main Threat Timeline
Noon – 2 p.m.
- Scattered showers may begin developing with increasing humidity.
2 p.m. – 8 p.m. (Highest Risk)
This is the window everyone should pay attention to…