Storm Bringing Strong Winds And Coastal Flooding To DC Area

WASHINGTON, DC — With forecasts of the worst coastal flooding since Hurricane Isabel in 2003, D.C. area residents should keep a close eye on weather conditions and plan to avoid flood-prone areas.

One to two inches of rain is forecast for Friday, with up to four inches in some areas. Flooding near streams and poor drainage areas is possible, according to the National Weather Service.

The heaviest rain is forecast to occur between late morning and late Friday afternoon, with thunderstorms also possible. Watch out for 3 p.m. when the heaviest rain is expected to reach the areas of Northern Virginia nearest to D.C.

Strong winds also could cause tree damage, as wind gusts could reach 30 to 40 mph in Northern Virginia and D.C. and hit 50 mph along the Chesapeake Bay.

Related: Tidal Flooding Moves Into Old Town Alexandria Streets: Photos

Coastal flooding will be the worst since Hurricane Isabel along parts of the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay, with 2 or 3 feet of inundation at high tide. High tides Friday afternoon and late Friday night are key concerns, according to the NWS.

Starting around 4 p.m., the rain will start to taper off, especially in western areas of Virginia. Heading into early evening Friday, the NWS says the heaviest rain will have moved out of the area, although umbrellas will probably still be necessary.

Old Town Alexandria is already experiencing some minor flooding as the Potomac inches its way toward Union Street. Floodwaters are expected to reach about a block and a half inland at King Street in Alexandria, according to the NWS.

Flooding in Old Town is expected to get worse as the day progresses. The City of Alexandria offered free sandbags to city residents Friday morning.

Flooding is expected to be the worst at high tide. The next high tides at the Washington Channel are at 3:14 p.m. and 3:24 a.m. Saturday. The next high tides at Alexandria are at 3:32 p.m. and 3:42 a.m. Friday.

A coastal flood warning is in effect until 8 a.m. Sunday, especially around high tide for coastal areas of Arlington County, City of Alexandria and District of Columbia. Coastal areas of Fairfax County, Manassas, Manassas Park, Prince William County and Stafford County are under the warning until 8 a.m. Saturday.

In Maryland, Friday flooding is slamming the Anne Arundel County coastline. Landmarks are underwater, roads are closed and meteorologists said this could be the worst flood in 10 to 20 years.

RELATED:

• Significant Tidal Flooding Expected In Alexandria, DC Area
• Coastal Flooding Possible In Prince William County
• Flooding Slams Annapolis, Snarls Anne Arundel Traffic: Photos