A severe thunderstorm watch was in effect across much of Maryland Thursday evening as storms capable of producing heavy downpours, frequent lightning and localized flooding moved through the region. The watch extends across central and southern Maryland, out to the eastern shore and down to the coast until 10 p.m.
Where the greatest impacts are expected
Forecasters were tracking multiple clusters of storms that have already produced intense rainfall in spots and could persist as they move east and southeast. Emergency and weather briefings indicated numerous flood watches and warnings were active across the state, including areas west of the Chesapeake Bay and into the mountains.
- Frederick County: Radar estimates indicated about 3 inches of rain in a short period in parts of the county; officials said that prompted a flooding warning that was in effect into the late afternoon.
- Baltimore metro and surrounding counties: Heavy downpours and frequent lightning were moving from southern parts of Baltimore City into northern Anne Arundel County and neighboring communities.
- Coverage: The severe watch covers central and southern counties, the eastern shore and coastal areas; county names cited in briefings included Arundel, Prince George's, Hartford, Cecil and others.
Timing and hazards
Forecasters emphasized the immediate risk presented by heavy, short-duration rainfall. The storm producing the largest observed rainfall was under a temporary flood warning in southern Frederick County, with that particular warning noted as active until about 5 p.m. in briefing updates.
"Turn around, don't drown."
That admonition was repeated in briefings as officials warned drivers not to attempt to cross flooded roads. Analysts stressed that as little as 1 foot of moving water can push a vehicle and create dangerous conditions.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Severe thunderstorm watch | In effect across central and southern Maryland until 10 p.m. |
| Noted rainfall | Radar-estimated ~3 inches in parts of Frederick County |
| Flooding warning | Active in parts of Frederick County into the late afternoon (noted until ~5 p.m.) |
Precautions for residents
Authorities urged residents to stay tuned to local forecasts and to heed any warnings or evacuation instructions. Practical safety steps include:
- Avoid travel through flooded roadways; do not drive into standing or flowing water.
- Move to higher ground if you are in a low-lying area or near small streams and creeks that can rise rapidly.
- Expect frequent lightning and localized strong winds within the heavier storms and take shelter indoors away from windows.
Coverage and warnings were evolving as storms moved through the state. Residents in the watch area should monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency management for changes to watches and warnings and for specific county-level guidance.
