Severe Weather Outlook Prompts Facility Closures In Falls Church

FALLS CHURCH, VA — As Falls Church and the region have severe storms in the forecast and are under a tornado watch Monday, some services are closing early.

Falls Church City Hall offices and the Mary Riley Styles Public Library closed at 3:30 p.m. Monday amid a hazardous weather forecast Monday afternoon and evening. The Falls Church Community Center remains open with limited staffing. Parents are urged pick up their children early from camp.

City Council's meeting has not yet been canceled, but updates will be provided by the city's communications methods. If the meeting remains scheduled and speakers wish to attend virtually, email cityclerk@fallschurchva.gov by 7 p.m. to receive the participation link.

Stay up to date with the city's severe weather alerts by signing up for emails, or following Facebook or Twitter.

Full Forecast: Tornado Watch Issued In NoVA, 'Hurricane Force Winds' Forecast

If power outages occur, contact Dominion Energy at www.dom.com or 866-366-4357. Residents should stay clear of downed wires and contact police at 703-241-5053. Dark traffic lights should be treated as four-way stops, where drivers should stop completely, according to the city.

Downed trees on buildings, streets and public property can also be reported to police at 703-241-5053. Property owners will be responsible for downed trees on their private property and can use tree contractors licensed in the City of Falls Church.

Forecasters expect severe storms this afternoon and evening. Damaging winds are the main threat and could be "locally destructive," according to the National Weather Service. Isolated flooding, tornados and large hail are also possible.

A tornado watch is in effect until 9 p.m. If a tornado warning is issued, it means the National Weather Service has confirmed tornado activity and urges residents to take cover.

The latest weather forecast and alerts can be found through the National Weather Service's Baltimore Washington Office.