Severe storms, possible tornadoes to threaten DC region Monday, followed by Tuesday chills
Expect strong to severe thunderstorms to move through the D.C. region Monday afternoon and evening, which could fuel possible tornadoes.
Much of the area is under a moderate risk for severe storms: Level 4 out of 5, according to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center. A designation rarely issued for the D.C. region.
Here are our Key Messages for Monday (3/16). pic.twitter.com/7EQAzKcntr
— NWS Storm Prediction Center (@NWSSPC) March 16, 2026
It advises that storms will move “very rapidly” and to “take action” when “warning are issued,” not wait until one can hear or see signs of them.
Schools across the D.C. area said they would be closed or would dismiss students early in anticipation of severe weather. A full list is available on WTOP.com.
The primary threat will be damaging gusts. Some storms could produce winds between 65 and 75 mph and isolated tornadoes are possible.
Outside the thunderstorms, it will be windy, with south winds between 15 and 25 mph and gusts potentially reaching 50 to 60 mph.
After morning clouds, temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 60s and low 70s, creating conditions that could see strong to severe storms during the afternoon and evening.
Behind the storms, a strong cold front will sweep through, bringing a dramatic shift in conditions for St. Patrick’s Day.
Tuesday will feel much more like winter returning to the region, as high temperatures may struggle to reach the upper 30s to mid 40s, and gusty northwest winds could make it feel closer to the 20s and 30s. Wind gusts reaching 40 mph are possible, adding to the chilly feel.
Conditions improve slightly by Wednesday with partly cloudy skies and lighter winds, though temperatures will remain below average, mainly in the 30s and 40s across the D.C. region.
Maryland prepares for the storm
Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of preparedness, directing Maryland’s Department of Emergency Management to coordinate readiness efforts across state government. He said the state’s Emergency Operations Center will be activated for Monday’s storm.
“I am urging residents to prepare early, stay informed, and adjust plans, including postponing travel, as conditions change. Know the safest room at home or at work, and plan to be indoors before the storm arrives,” Moore said in a statement.
The state issued the following preparedness recommendations:
- Plan ahead to minimize impact on you and your family.
- If you receive a tornado warning, immediately seek shelter.
- Stay informed by regularly checking weather updates from official sources and be sure to have a way to access local forecasts and warnings.
- Have an emergency kit ready and a family emergency plan in place, including where to shelter if a tornado warning is issued for your area.
- Heed all warnings and stay indoors during severe weather, including pets.
- Keep devices charged in case of power outages.
- Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found at mdem.maryland.gov.
- Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from the home and away from windows, doors and vents.
- Listen to WTOP online and on the radio at 103.5 FM or 107.7 FM.
- Current traffic conditions
- Weather forecast
- Closings and Delays: DC-area schools make decisions for Monday instruction
- Sign up for WTOP email alerts
- Get custom alerts with the WTOP app for Apple and Android phones
FORECAST
TODAY: WEATHER ALERT: Strong to severe thunderstorms. Highs between 65 and 72.
Winds: South 15 to 25 mph, gusts 50 to 60 mph
TONIGHT: Rain and storms ending. Clearing skies. Lows between 27 to 35.
Winds: West 10 to 15 mph, gusts 25 mph
ST. PATRICK’S DAY TUESDAY: Partly sunny, cold. Highs between 38 to 46, with wind chills between 25 and 35.
Winds: Northwest 15 to 25 mph, gusts to 40 mph
WEDNESDAY: Partly cloudy. Highs between 38 and 45.
Winds: South 5 to 10 mph