STERLING VA: (Rocktown Now) — Residents across the Mid-Atlantic are being urged to prepare for powerful winds Friday, as the National Weather Service has issued both a Wind Advisory and a High Wind Warning for large portions of the region.
Wind Advisory
- Timing: Noon to 7 p.m. EST Friday
- Areas Affected: Washington, D.C., central Maryland, and much of Virginia including central, northern, northwestern, and western counties
- Conditions: West winds of 20–30 mph with gusts reaching 45–55 mph
- Impacts: Loose outdoor objects may be blown around, tree limbs could fall, and scattered power outages are possible. Gusty conditions may linger into Friday evening.
High Wind Warning
- Timing: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST Friday
- Areas Affected
- Virginia: Central and Northern Blue Ridge, Eastern and Western Highland Counties
- West Virginia: Eastern Grant, Eastern Mineral, and Eastern Pendleton Counties
- Conditions: Stronger west winds of 25–35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph
- Impacts: Damaging winds are expected to topple trees and power lines, leading to widespread outages. Travel will be hazardous, particularly for high-profile vehicles.
- Additional Details: The most intense winds are forecast above 3,000 feet near daybreak, followed by a more widespread surge midday through late afternoon. A third burst of strong winds may occur Friday evening.
Safety Precautions
Officials advise securing outdoor items, avoiding wooded areas where falling limbs pose a risk, and exercising caution while driving. Motorists of trucks, vans, and other large vehicles should be prepared for difficult travel conditions.
