Storm Alert: What to Know About Today's Thunderstorm Watch

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Sterling, Virginia and nearby areas until 11 PM tonight. The National Weather Service expects storms with strong winds and hail, and there’s a small chance of tornadoes. While warnings like this don’t guarantee disaster, they mean conditions are right for dangerous weather.Strong winds could knock down trees and power lines, leading to outages. Hail might damage roofs, cars, and property. Travel could become risky if roads flood or debris blocks streets. The worst storms usually pass quickly, but their impact can last days. People should stay inside and avoid windows when storms hit. Driving is discouraged unless absolutely necessary. Reporting damage or hazards helps officials track the situation. Updates are available on weather. gov or local news sites.