WASHINGTON, D.C. – If you’ve been outside today, you probably felt like you were about to blow away! A Wind Advisory is in effect until midnight across Virginia, Maryland, and D.C., with gusts reaching up to 55 mph.
This isn’t just an annoying breeze—it’s the kind of wind that can knock down trees, mess with power lines, send trash cans flying, and make driving downright scary. If you have evening plans, be extra careful!
What’s Happening?
- Timing: The winds will stay strong all day and into the night, finally calming down after midnight.
- Wind Speeds: Steady winds at 20-30 mph, with gusts hitting 50-55 mph.
- Temperatures: It’ll hover in the low 50s, but thanks to the wind, it’ll feel much colder.
What Does This Mean for You?
Tree Branches & Power Lines Could Come Down – Scattered power outages are possible, especially in areas with lots of trees.
Driving Could Get Sketchy – If you’re in a tall vehicle (SUVs, trucks, vans), be extra careful, especially on highways and bridges.
Anything Not Tied Down Could Fly Away – Trash cans, patio furniture, holiday decorations—nothing is safe! If it’s outside and not secured, the wind is taking it.
What You Should Do Right Now
Bring in or tie down anything that could blow away. You don’t want to chase your lawn chairs down the street.
Charge your phone & have flashlights handy. Power outages could happen, and no one likes sitting in the dark.
Drive with both hands on the wheel! Highways, bridges, and open roads will be extra windy and tricky to navigate.
Watch out for flying debris. A trash can to the face is not how you want to end your night.
Check on elderly neighbors. If they need help securing outdoor items, lend a hand!
What’s the Weather Looking Like?
- Washington, D.C.: Partly sunny, windy, high near 51°F (10°C)
- Baltimore, MD: Cloudy, gusty, highs around 50°F (10°C)
- Richmond, VA: Mostly cloudy, breezy, highs near 54°F (12°C)
This wild wind is part of a larger storm system that’s been sweeping up the East Coast, already bringing severe storms and even tornado warnings to some areas down south.
When Will It Calm Down?
- The wind will stay strong all evening, then finally ease up after midnight.
- Friday morning will still be breezy, but nowhere near as intense.
This isn’t just a windy day—these gusts are strong enough to knock out power, cause damage, and make travel risky.
