Flood and Tornado Warning for Fairfax County and Surrounding Areas

Updated March 10, 7:12 p.m. The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for the area. At 6:54 p.m. the NWS radar indicated a severe thunderstorm moving north at 45 mph, capable of producing a tornado near Centreville. The warning is effective until 7:30 p.m.

The NWS advises everyone to take cover as a precautionary measure. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. If you are in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from debris. 

The tornado may be wrapped in rain and hard to see or hear. Do not wait to see or hear the tornado. Take cover now.

Locations impacted include:

West Central Montgomery County
 Manassas and Manassas Park

Eastern Loudoun County

North Central Prince William County

Northwestern Fairfax County

Dulles International Airport

South Riding 

Herndon

Ashburn

Arcola 

Broadlands

Brambleton

Countryside

Lansdowne

Lowes Island

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Updated March 10, 3:20 p.m. The flood watch has now been upgraded to a flood warning, effective until 9 p.m. Thursday night for nearly all of Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. This means that flooding is imminent or has been reported. 

Heavy rainfall may cause small creeks and streams to flood, as well as highways and underpasses. Country roads and farmlands along the banks of creeks are also particularly susceptible. Flash flooding is not expected. The Sheriff's Office has also sent out a reminder that even SUVs can be moved by as little as 18 inches of water.

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Original Post:

Fairfax County issued the following public service announcement Wednesday morning, March 9:

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Fairfax County and surrounding area. The watch is from Wednesday evening through late Thursday night. Periods of moderate to heavy rain will move into the region ahead of a cold front Wednesday evening into Thursday. By time the cold front clears the area Thursday night up to 3 inches of rain will be possible. The rainfall amounts likely will cause flooding of low lying area, small Streams & Creeks. Those living in area prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.