Virginia-Maryland Flood Alert: Roads May Disappear Underwater by Tonight

If you live or commute in Arlington, Alexandria, or Montgomery County, you’ll want to pay close attention to today’s Virginia-Maryland Flood Alert. Heavy rain is moving through the region, and forecasters are warning that some areas could see flooding on roads, low-lying neighborhoods, and near streams or creeks. The alert is in effect through 9 PM Friday, with conditions expected to worsen through the evening rush hour.

What’s Happening

Scattered showers and thunderstorms are already soaking parts of the D.C. metro area, and more is on the way. The National Weather Service says rainfall could come down at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour, and in some places, totals could top 3 inches before things finally calm down.

That kind of rain, especially when it falls quickly, can cause flash flooding—even in spots that don’t usually flood. The Virginia-Maryland Flood Alert is aimed at preventing exactly that, by urging people to stay off water-covered roads, keep an eye on weather alerts, and avoid driving through areas where flooding often occurs.

Why You Should Take This Seriously

Flooding doesn’t just damage property — it turns roads dangerous within minutes, especially in urban areas like Old Town Alexandria, downtown Arlington, and parts of Bethesda and Silver Spring. Just a few inches of water can cause a car to stall or slide, and deeper water can be deadly.

This Virginia-Maryland Flood Alert serves as a reminder: if you see standing water on the road, turn around — don’t risk it. Emergency services are already stretched when storms like this roll through, and one bad decision can quickly lead to a rescue situation.

What You Can Do Now

• Delay any unnecessary travel until the rain clears tonight.

• If you’re driving and hit heavy rain, slow down and avoid low-lying streets or underpasses.

• If you live in a flood-prone area, move your vehicle to higher ground and make sure storm drains near your home are clear.

• Stay connected to alerts from the National Weather Service or local news stations.

Looking Ahead

The good news? Conditions are expected to dry out overnight, and the weekend is looking much better. But until then, tonight could be rough — and taking precautions now can help avoid costly or dangerous outcomes later.

FAQ About Virginia-Maryland Flood Alert

1. How bad is the flooding supposed to get?

It depends where the heaviest rain hits, but some places could see up to 3 inches of rain in just a few hours. That’s more than enough to cause flooded roads, standing water, and traffic issues. It’s not the kind of storm to ignore — especially if you’ll be out driving.

2. When will the worst of it hit?

The biggest concern is between early afternoon and 9 PM Friday. That includes the evening rush hour, so things could get messy if the rain picks up right when people are heading home. It may start earlier in some spots, so it’s a good idea to stay alert all day.

3. What should I do if I’m out and come across a flooded street?

Don’t chance it — just turn around. It’s easy to underestimate how deep the water is, and it only takes a few inches to stall a car or get swept off the road. Even if it adds time to your drive, it’s the safer choice.

4. Could this mess up my evening plans or weekend schedule?

It might. If the rain gets heavy, some events could be canceled or delayed — especially outdoor ones. Roads may be slow or flooded in places. The good news is things should clear up overnight, so your weekend looks much better once we get through today.