UPDATED: Tornado Watch issued until 11 p.m.; Flood Watch Continues until 1 a.m.

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The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for the area until 11 p.m. Tuesday.

"A line of thunderstorms with some embedded tornadoes is heading towards the Washington and Baltimore metro areas," NWS forecasters said.  "This line will likely cross the metro areas at the height of evening rush hours between 5 and 7 p.m."

A Tornado Warning is in effect until 6 p.m. for southeastern Prince William County, Stafford County, southeastern Culpeper and northeastern Spotsylvania Counties and the City of Fredericksburg.

NWS warns residents to stay alert for warnings and be prepared to seek shelter quickly if the "watch" becomes "warning" or if dangerous conditions persist.

"If you are caught outdoors or in your vehicle during a tornado, there is no safe place to be," they said.  "Just get as low as you can and cover your head to protect as much as you can from debris. Get indoors if at all possible."

Officials advise residents seek shelter in a sturdy home or business, on the lowest floor, in an interior room, away from windows.

A Flood Watch is also in effect until 1 a.m.

"Strong low pressure over Southern Ohio will track northeast to Lake Erie through this evening," the service said. "Showers and thunder storms, heavy at times, are expected to move northeast across the area late this afternoon into the evening."

Rainfall amounts of one inch are possible.

Bristow Beat will provide updates.

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