Weather

Severe thunderstorms could bring damaging winds, flooding to Montgomery County

Forecasters warn of possible hail, an isolated tornado, flash flooding Tuesday afternoon, evening

July 21, 2026 11:03 a.m.

A tornado touched down in Poolesville in June 2024. Credit: Liz Calvey

Montgomery County could see hazardous weather Tuesday afternoon and evening as severe thunderstorms move through the region, according to the National Weather Service.

The agency says scattered severe thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening, with damaging wind gusts as the primary threat. Large hail and an isolated tornado are also possible, along with a few instances of flash flooding.

The Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (OEMHS) is urging residents to prepare for potentially severe weather. In a post on X Monday afternoon, the agency shared safety tips for before, during and after the storms.

Ahead of the storms, OEMHS recommends stocking up on essentials such as food, water, medications and fresh batteries in case of power outages. Residents are encouraged to check flashlights, smoke detectors and weather radios, secure outdoor furniture and trash cans, and fuel their vehicles before the storm arrives.

- Advertisement -

Residents can sign up for weather alerts through the Alert Montgomery system, which provides emergency notifications from Montgomery County via text message, email, or voice call to cell, work, or home phones.

During the storms, residents should stay indoors and away from windows. If a tornado warning is issued or destructive winds are expected, officials recommend moving to a basement or an interior room without windows. Drivers should avoid traveling unless necessary and never drive through flooded roadways.

After the storms pass, residents should continue to use caution, as hazards such as downed trees, power lines and floodwaters may remain. OEMHS also advises residents to discard perishable food if refrigeration has been lost for an extended period and reminds motorists to “turn around, don’t drown” by never driving through flooded roads.

People are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and emergency alerts throughout the day as conditions evolve.

Digital Partners

Originally published at Bethesdamagazine