Updated Sept. 18, 5 p.m.:
A flash flood watch is now in effect for Prince William and surrounding areas through the D.C. and Baltimore metro area, especially east of and along Route 95, according to the National Weather Service.
Until 8 p.m. this evening, meteorologists are predicting a line of showers and thunderstorms will move across the area with rainfall expected at a rate of one-two inches per hour.
NWS warns that excessive rainfall can cause creeks and streams to rise too quickly, thus flooding roads, banks and low-lining areas. This makes travel via automobile or on foot particularly dangerous.
The service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook, which includes the possibility of strong gale gusts and even isolated tornadoes. Tornado watch remains in effect until 7 p.m. this evening.
Currently it is 77 degrees F in Bristow with breezy south winds blowing around 15 miles per hour with gusts as high as 25 mph. There is now a 100 percent change of precipitation.
While there is currently a reprieve from the storm over Bristow, it has not passed. Showers and thunderstorms are still expected until 10 p.m. and some storms might be severe. Lighter showers are expected throughout the night as well.
Showers and possible thunderstorms are expected tomorrow morning as well. The low will be around 57 degrees F, and there is also a 90 percent chance of precipitation.
Citizens should be careful, watchful and mindful during a tornado watch. If that watch becomes a warning, people are advised to stay indoors and away from windows. The ideal shelter location is a basement or windowless room on ground level.
On the roads, drive carefully and look out for areas of flooding. Report incidents of flooding to law enforcement officials, so they can block streets, if necessary.
The turbulent weather conditions are being caused by cold air blown into the area, mixing with warm are. Tomorrow should be cooler due to the cold front, but keep an eye out for flooding, during the morning commute.
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