Weather

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued For MD: 70 MPH Wind Speeds Expected

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for portions of central Maryland. Storms may produce dangerous lightning and 70 mph winds.

ACROSS MARYLAND — A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for portions of central Maryland until 5:30 p.m.

The warning includes southeastern Howard County, southern Montgomery County, central Prince George's County, west central Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City and Southeastern Baltimore County.

At 3:51 p.m., weather officials reported severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from Broadlands to seven miles west of Dale City, moving northeast at 50 mph.

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The storms were capable of producing wind gusts of up to 70 mph and continuous cloud to ground lightning. Locations expected to be hit by the storms include: Arlington, Alexandria, Columbia, Centreville, Dale City, Rockville, Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Reston, Bowie, Annandale, Clinton, Olney, Springfield, College Park, South Riding, Fort Washington, Herndon, Greenbelt, and Fairfax.

The winds are expected to down trees and cause large branches to fall. All residents living in the warning area should "seek shelter now," weather officials said.

Find out what's happening in Columbiafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

This is a developing story. Check back for more details.

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