Tornado Watch Cancelled

Updated 1:25 p.m. The tornado watch has been cancelled. 

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for Fairfax County and the surrounding areas until 4 p.m.

A tornado watch is issued when severe tornadoes and thunderstorms are possible in the affected area, according to the National Weather Service's website. People in the watch area are encouraged to prepare for severe weather, including high winds, and potentially hail.

A tornado warning would not be issued unless a tornado is detected or imminent in the area. If a tornado warning is issued, affected residents are encouraged to take shelter in the lowest level of your home, away from all windows. More tips on what to do in case of a tornado can be found here.

You can get the National Weather Service's full report and updates online.