Washington D.C. residents are facing more than just political storms today, with the National Weather Service issuing a series of tumultuous weather forecasts and warnings. Scattered showers are anticipated before the afternoon ceases its march – but it's not the rain that has people looking skyward with apprehension. A chance of isolated severe thunderstorms is on the table, capable of chucking out damaging wind gusts and hail, especially south of the I-66/US-50, according to the National Weather Service.
This afternoon and evening could see the kind of meteorological unrest that sends outdoor furniture skittering across backyards, and the experts are earmarking the likelihood of Special Marine Warnings for chunks of the surrounding waters. For boat owners, it's a nudge to secure their vessels against gusts that could howl over 34 knots and swat hail like baseballs. As the Washington D.C. area braces for potential chaos, the forecast points to a 30% chance of precipitation today and being cautious seems to be the watchword.
The weather disruptions don't end with thunderous performances as Thursday promises a 90% chance of theaters shaking. It's not merely the sheer volume of potential showers and storms that has eyebrows arching, but the "scattered severe thunderstorms" which come with a nasty bite, think damaging wind gusts and more hail. This isn't just a flash in the pan, the potential for "considerable wind damage from 70mph gusts and large hail," requires attention, and it's not only the National Weather Service waving a yellow flag but also citizens preparing for impact.
As if the skies aren't troubling enough, there's additional drama unfolding along the District's shoreline. The ongoing Coastal Flood Advisory spells out the grimmer reality of up to one-half foot of inundation above ground precisely in those spots like around the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial where tourists often flock. The precipitous affair is said to be at its peak around high tide, which came at 8:40 AM, "Shoreline inundation is expected along portions of the seawall adjacent to Ohio Drive and the Hains Point Loop Road, and near the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial," warns the National Weather Service.
