National Weather Service Issues Severe Thunderstorm Warning

The National Weather Service in Sterling has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of northern Virginia. The warning is valid until 10 p.m Thursday.

According to NWS, locations that will be impacted by the incoming storm include, Centreville, Dale City, Springfield, Lake Ridge, Burke, Newington, Lorton and the Interstate-395 and Interstate-495 interchange.

The storm is also expected to affect central Virginia, northwest Virginia, city of Alexandria, Manassas and Manassas Park, Falls Church, Fairfax, parts of Maryland and parts of West Virginia.

The NWS alert shows that this storm is producing cloud to ground lightning. If you hear thunder, you're more than likely close enough to be struck by lightning and should move indoors immediately.

Residents should take precautionary/preparedness actions. Fairfax County advises residents to move indoors to a sturdy building and stay away from the windows if you find yourself in the path of what is being considered a dangerous storm. When it's safe to do so, report severe weather conditions to local law enforcement or NWS.

During an emergency, follow the Fairfax County Emergency Information Blog at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency/blogfor situational awareness.