Tornado and Flash Flood Watches in effect in Alexandria until tonight

With topical storms headed toward Alexandria, the National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch and a Flash Flood Watch that will be in effect until tonight.

The Tornado Watch is currently in effect until 8 p.m. The Flash Flood Watch comes after Sunday morning’s flooding that swept through familiar areas that have experienced significant stormwater issues for years. It is in effect until 10 p.m.

“Multiple rounds of heavy showers and thunderstorms will affect the region through this evening,” NWS said. “Tropical moisture will lead to potential precipitation rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. Localized storm total rain amounts in excess of 3 inches are possible. The best chance for more widespread heavier rainfall will be during the day today.”

Alexandria starts flooding with three rainfall amounts get to about three inches.

“Heavy rain over a short amount of time may result in rapid rises on streams and creeks and in urbanized and poor drainage areas,” NWS said.

As Tropical Depression Fred passes off to the west, there will be a threat for isolated tornadoes, damaging winds, as well as flash flooding. The risk for severe thunderstorms may come as early as the mid-morning. Otherwise, conditions should improve by late this evening. pic.twitter.com/wAnqAVAqdi

— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) August 18, 2021

A Tornado Watch is in effect for portions of the area through 8 PM tonight. Visit https://t.co/5RyZgpeTAT for more information and the latest forecast. #VAwx #MDwx #WVwx pic.twitter.com/n6vnfSWACg

— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) August 18, 2021