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

ACROSS VIRGINIA — A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for portions of central Maryland and northern Virginia.

The severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 5:30 p.m. for: southeastern Howard County, southern Montgomery County, central Prince Georges County, west central Anne Arundel County, southeastern Loudoun County, the city of Falls Church, Fairfax County, the city of Manassas Park, east central Prince William County, the northeastern city of Manassas, the city of Fairfax, Arlington County and the city of Alexandria.

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.

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.

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