Gusty Winds and Flash Flood Watch Issued
Posted at 3:48 p.m.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flash Flood Watch for Fairfax County through late tonight. The forecast indicates warm temperatures surging ahead of a cold front will fuel several weather threats today and tonight:
- Strong winds. Winds will steadily increase today with possible gusts near 40 mph by this evening. These damaging wind gusts could cause downed trees and electric lines.
- Heavy rain. While total rainfall is only expected to be 1 to 2 inches, it will likely fall in a short period of time and this could cause flash flooding. Those in low lying areas of the county need to monitor the situation and be prepared to move vehicles or families to higher ground should the need arise.
5 Tips to be Ready
- Get where you need to be before the weather gets bad. If you have a high profile vehicle like a SUV, they are more sensitive to strong wind gusts.
- Don’t drive through high water – remember to “Turn around, don’t drown.”
- Exercise extreme caution at intersections. If traffic signals lose power, remember to treat that as a 4-way stop, with the driver on the right having the right-of-way.
- Proceed with caution only when traffic permits.
- Enter intersections only when it is safe to do so, using turn signals to let other motorists know your intentions.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Watch out for and obey police officers directing traffic within intersections.
- Have flash lights readily available — with extra batteries – and make sure your cellphones are fully charged.
- Check on your neighbors, especially if your neighborhood loses electricity.
Stay Informed
Be sure to sign up for free weather alerts from CEAN, the Community Emergency Alert Network. And if you need them, here’s a list of important phone numbers that may be helpful.
10 Ways to Get Ready for Hurricane Sandy
Posted 12:56 p.m.
National Weather Service rainfall potential of Hurricane Sandy for the next 1-5 days.
Hurricane Sandy continues to be a major threat to our area and could lead to substantial impacts in the next few days. Virginia has already declared a state of emergency in advance of the storm.
To put it simply: we need you to prepare.
The storm’s track is not yet certain, but the National Weather Service models this morning suggest a likely scenario of 4-6 inches of rain, tropical storm winds, downed trees/power lines and flooding for possibly multiple days. More details will become available later today and Saturday from the National Weather Service about timing and impact.
But right now, we have time to get ready.
What you need to know and do:
1.) Supplies: Get your supplies – water, medicines, canned food, cash, pet food and more. View more suggestions for emergency supply kits. We strongly recommend that you be prepared with at least three days of supplies.
2.) Gas: Fill your car’s gas tank. Gas stations will be in short supply in a power outage.
3.) Generators: If you have a generator or plan to buy one, please be familiar with safety tips.
4.) Food Safety: Power outages and flooding may happen as a result of a tropical storm or hurricane, so have a plan for keeping food safe. Have a cooler on hand to keep food cold, and group food together in the freezer so it stays cold longer.
5.) Outdoor Items: Plan to secure all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
6.) Trees: Remove dead limbs on trees that could fall on your property (home, car, land).
7.) Leaves: Clear leaves from storm drains, gutters and other areas that, if clogged, could cause flooding.
8.) Weather Forecasts: Pay close attention to weather forecasts for the latest storm track. We will provide guidance as needed. Purchase or charge up your weather radio. If you have a weather radio that uses SAME codes, Fairfax County’s SAME code is 051059.
9.) Tech Ready: View our Digital Preparedness Kit, which is an important way to stay informed and connected before, during and after an emergency.
10.) Phone Numbers: Save important phone numbers to your phone or write them down, especially your power company. Always report a power outage.
Please share this information with your family, friends and co-workers so our whole community can be better prepared.
Be Alert for Severe Storms Today
Posted 1:32 p.m.
A strong cold front will move through our area later today (probably between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.). This front could cause damaging wind gusts in excess of 55 mph, locally heavy rainfall and an isolated tornado. Please stay informed as the storm may be heavier in some areas, including localized flooding.
A tornado watch has been issued for the National Capital Region until 7 p.m. Know the differences between tornado watches and warnings.
Six Actions to Take:
1.) Sign up for weather text/email alerts at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/cean and/or pay close attention to weather forecasts.
2.) If roads flood, “turn around, don’t drown.” Do not drive through flooded roads. This storm may strike us during rush hour, so please slow down and allow extra time for travel.
3.) Please keep children away from streams and creeks that may rise rapidly.
4.) Bring in any outdoor furniture or other items that may not be secure.
5.) In case you lose power, call your provider. Do not assume they know your power is out. For Dominion Virginia Power customers, call 1-866-366-4357, TTY 711. For NOVEC customers, call 1-888-335-0500, TTY 711.
6.) If you are experiencing an emergency, call 9-1-1. If you are experiencing other public safety non-emergencies, please call 703-691-2131, TTY 703-204-2264.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Western Fairfax County
Posted 10:08 p.m.
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Western Fairfax County until 10:45 p.m. This storm is capable of producing damaging winds in excess of 60 mph. Locations impacted include Dulles International Airport, Centreville and Chantilly. This is a dangerous storm. If you are in its path, prepare immediately for damaging wind gusts and frequent cloud to ground lightning. Move indoors to a sturdy building and stay away from windows. More weather online at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem/weather.htm.
Storm Aftermath: What You Need to Know
Posted 1:16 a.m.
A major line of storms roared through our area this evening causing many issues, including two confirmed fatalities and more than 100 homes damaged by fallen trees.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Please only call 9-1-1 if you have an emergency; do not call 9-1-1 to report power outages.
- Approximately 20,000 Fairfax County residents are without power. If you have lost power or know people who have, please report the outage:
- Dominion Virginia Power outages and downed wires: 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357), TTY 711; view outage map
- NOVEC (Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative) outages and downed wires: 1-888-335-0500 or 703-335-0500, TTY 711; view outage reports
- Stay away from downed wires as they may be live with electricity.
- It’s going to be very hot again Saturday as heat index values will be close to 104. Power may not be restored to all residents immediately. Please start making plans to seek shelter during the heat with friends, family or neighbors, as well as at public buildings such as libraries, movie theathers, shopping malls and other community facilities. Please check in on vulnerable neighbors who may need assistance without power. Drink plenty of fluids.
- Don’t use candles during outages; stick with battery power. If you must use a candle, never leave it unattended or while asleep.
- Several roadways are closed in Fairfax County with many more covered in debris (mainly tree limbs).
- Here’s who to call to have trees removed if on public property.
- If power remains out and affects traffic lights, please obey these traffic rules.
Tornado Watch Until 2 a.m.; Second Wave of Storms Coming Soon
Posted 8:05 p.m.
The National Weather Service tornado watch continues until 2 a.m. A second wave of storms is on its way to our area bringing with it heavy rain, wind, hail and possible tornadoes. This second wave will hit between 9 and 11 p.m.
Please stay alert for changing conditions, especially nighttime tornadoes and road flooding. Two cars were caught in swift water this evening, so please, turn around, don’t drown.
Stay tuned to local media, our emergency alert network, social media or other tools that will alert you.
Roads That Historically Flood; Turn Around, Don’t Drown
Posted 7:25 p.m.
Here’s a list of roads that historically flood in Fairfax County. Review these roads and be cautious of other ones that may flood, too. Turn around, don’t drown.
Police are on scene at many of these locations to monitor the water level and close the roads as necessary.
If you see a road covered in water, let us know the location.
Potential Street Flooding in Huntington, Belle View, New Alexandria
Posted 5:46 p.m.
Based on the National Weather Service prediction of an additional several inches of rain this evening as a second storm band moves through the area, Fairfax County officials forecast that it is possible residents may experience localized street flooding in the Huntington and Belle View/New Alexandria areas.
Residents in these areas, and in other low-lying areas across the county, are encouraged to move their vehicles to higher ground as soon as possible.
Please note that with all high intensity rainfall, street flooding is possible. If there is any possibility of a flash flood:
- Move immediately to higher ground.
- Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Be aware of streams, drainage channels and other areas known to flood suddenly. –
- Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.
This rain will bring the risk of flooding to streams, creeks and low-lying areas tonight through tomorrow. This may cause many secondary roadways to become impassable. Motorists are reminded that if you find yourself driving in potential flash flood conditions, never drive through standing water on a roadway. Water may be much deeper than you think, causing your car to stall or even get stuck in hidden debris.
County public works, emergency management and public safety personnel are monitoring the weather and will continue to do so through the evening and overnight and will alert residents should any additional information become available or actions necessary.
For the official NWS forecast, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem/weather.htm.
Severe Weather to Impact Our Area; Tornado Watch Until 9 p.m.
Posted 3:01 p.m.
The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch until 9 p.m. for Fairfax County and the entire National Capital Area. Thunderstorms, heavy rains, wind, large hail and potential flooding are also expected beginning this afternoon.
This is a dangerous storm. Let’s break down potential issues to consider:
Tornadoes
A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for a tornado and that tornadoes are possible. The National Weather Service is predicting that the greatest threat for tornadoes in Fairfax County will be between 7 and 10 p.m.
Think of where you would normally be during that time –at home, in a restaurant or movie theater, outdoors, at work or in the car. You may only have a few seconds to react. Decide now where you would go if a tornado warning is issued.
You may also be sleeping, too, so ensure you have some way to be notified of a potential tornado warning. Sign up for our Community Emergency Alert Network, listen to a weather radio, follow social media sites or watch local TV.
View more tornado preparedness and safety tips.
Heavy Rain, Winds and Flooding
This weather system could bring winds up to 50 mph and 1-2 inches of rain. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move. Do not drive in flooded roads – “turn around, don’t drown.” Also, it’s very important to keep your children inside and away from streams and creeks.
If you live in a flood-prone area, identify where to go if ordered to evacuate and the safest route to get there. If there is a flood, you may only have minutes to get to safety. Choose several places – a friend’s home in another town, a motel or a shelter. View more flood safety tips.
Due to high winds, please secure all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
Power Outages
Due to high winds, you may lose power. Plan ahead for life without power. Have an emergency kit ready with food to eat and other supplies.
Avoid using lighted candles as they may cause a fire. Flashlights are safer when the power is out.
If you are driving and traffic lights are out, please abide by these rules.
In case you lose your power, here are the numbers to call to report the outage:
- Dominion Virginia Power outages and downed wires: 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357), TTY 711
- BGE outages: 877-778-2222; downed wires: 800-685-0123
- NOVEC (Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative) outages and downed wires: 1-888-335-0500 or 703-335-0500, TTY 711
- Pepco outages: 1-877-737-2662
Emergency Phone Numbers
Only call 9-1-1 for emergencies.
Refer to this list of important phone numbers for other key contacts; bookmark it on your computer, smartphone or write down the numbers.
Be Prepared: Buy Flood Insurance Now
Water rushes into a basement in Fairfax County during Tropical Storm Lee.
The best time to buy flood insurance is right now. Homeowners’ insurance policies normally do not cover damage from flooding.
A few inches of flood water in a home or business may cause major damage to floors, walls, carpets and furniture.
Fairfax County assists residents by participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This allows residential and commercial property owners and renters to purchase flood insurance at discounted rates. The program is backed by the federal government.
It is not commonly known that flood insurance benefits from the National Flood Insurance Program are paid even when a federal disaster has not been declared. Anyone may purchase flood insurance no matter where their property is located.
To learn more about the National Flood Insurance Program visit the Federal Emergency Management (FEMA) Web site at http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/ or call Fairfax County at 703-324-5500 TTY 711. FEMA can be reached toll free at 1-888-379-9531.
Street Flooding Expected in Huntington; Residents Should Move Cars Immediately
The National Weather Service indicates that heavy rains are beginning to develop around the area and should start impacting Fairfax County mid-morning. Heavy rains will extend throughout the rest of the morning into this evening with the heaviest moving out after 5:30 p.m. A potential for 4 inches of rain during this time period is possible with a chance of several inches falling in just an hour of time.
If the county experiences the heavier rainfall amounts, significant street flooding can be expected in the Huntington area and localized street flooding in the New Alexandria/Belle View area.
** Residents in the Huntington area, especially those who live on Fenwick Drive and Arlington Terrace, are encouraged to immediately move their vehicles to higher ground. Residents should also move valuables from basements. **
County public works, emergency management and public safety personnel are on scene as well as monitoring the weather and will alert residents should any additional information become available or further actions necessary.
Flash Flood Watch
A flash flood watch has been issued by the National Weather Service through this evening. A flash flood watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
Other Resources
Heavy Rains Expected in Next 24 Hours (4:25 p.m.)
The National Weather Service (NWS) forecast indicates scattered showers and possible thunderstorms throughout this afternoon and evening. NWS expects heavier rainfall beginning tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 23.
Fairfax County can expect to receive 1 inch to 2 inches of rain with some areas of the county experiencing an additional 1inch to 2 inches over a short period of time. The heavy rains are expected to end sometime tomorrow evening, but intermittent showers are expected through Wednesday of next week.
Based on current conditions and the projected forecast, county officials do not anticipate any significant flooding in the Huntington or Belle View/New Alexandria areas this evening. If the heavier rain amounts are received tomorrow, residents may experience roadway flooding in the Huntington area and localized street flooding in the New Alexandria/Belle View area.
County public works, emergency management and public safety personnel are monitoring the weather and will continue to do so through the evening and overnight and will alert residents should any additional information become available or actions necessary.
For the current weather forecast, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/oem/weather.htm. Residents without Internet access or not near a computer, may call 703-652-1210 to listen to the current NWS forecast.
Stay Informed
