Flash Flood Watch Begins Late Wednesday: Virginia Weather Forecast

Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are possible across the Washington, D.C., metro region beginning overnight late Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

A flash flood watch has been issued across the area from 2 a.m. Thursday until 8 a.m. Friday morning.

Beginning late Tuesday, clouds will increase. Rain is expected to begin Wednesday afternoon, according to the weather service, becoming heavier Wednesday night and continue throughout Thursday.

Periods of heavy rain, with amount of 3 inches to 5 inches are expected, with locally heavier amounts in areas of repeated activity.

"The potential exists for flash flooding of small streams, creeks and urban areas," according to the weather service statement. "Especially in areas of repeated activity."

Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring local forecasts for updates.

Here's a look at the detailed forecast for Northern Virginia:

• Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. A chance of showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the morning...then a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 70s. Northeast winds around 5 mph...becoming southeast in the afternoon. Chance of rain 50 percent.
• Wednesday Night: Mostly cloudy. Showers likely. Lows in the mid 60s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
• Thursday: Mostly cloudy with showers likely. Highs in the mid 70s. East winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
• Thursday Night: Mostly cloudy with showers likely. Lows in the lower 60s. Chance of rain 60 percent.

Information posted early Tuesday by the NWS on Twitter:

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