Expected Heavy Rains Lead to Flash Flood Watch Issued for Germantown Area

The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for the Germantown-area and most of Maryland beginning at 2:00 pm this afternoon, Friday, July 28 and through Saturday afternoon.

“A low pressure will develop over the Mid-Atlantic today and move slowly off the coast through Saturday,” said the National Weather Service. “This system will have the potential to bring three-inches or more of rain to the region through Saturday afternoon. Thunderstorms could cause locally higher rainfall amounts.”

“Showers and thunderstorms will overspread the area during the midday hours. The steadiest and heaviest rain will fall late this afternoon through tonight. Saturday will be wet too, as low pressure slowly pulls away from the coast,” said the NWS. Along with rain, gusty winds are possible this afternoon. All of Montgomery County is expected to receive more than three-inches of rain, and some spots could see as much a four-inches of rain.

“Heavy rainfall may result in rapid rises in streams and creeks,” according to the NWS. “This could quickly result in flooding, especially in low lying and poor drainage areas.”

As a result of the expected heavy rains a Flash Flood Watch has been issued. “A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation.”

Flooding kills more people every year than any other weather hazard. Do not drive through flooded areas. If you live in a flood prone area, be prepared to move to higher ground if flooding develops.