The National Weather Service has issued a high wind watch, in effect from late tonight through Saturday evening. High winds will begin this evening with the strongest winds between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday. Wind gusts up to 60 mph will be possible.
In addition, the National Weather Service has also issued a fire weather watch in effect from Saturday morning through Saturday evening. A fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur.
Fairfax County residents should be concerned about the impacts from very high winds tomorrow (Saturday) across the National Capital Region. Downed trees and large limbs are possible. Residents may want to ensure that outdoor furniture and other items outside homes and businesses are properly secured or moved inside. Bring in unsecured objects from patios and balconies and secure outdoor objects such as lawn furniture or garbage cans that could blow away and cause damage or injury.
Ensure that windows are secure and brace outside doors.
Also, if driving, keep both hands on the wheel and slow down. Watch for objects blowing across the roadway and into your path. Keep a safe distance from cars in adjacent lanes as strong gusts could push a car outside its lane of travel. Take extra care in a high-profile vehicle such as a truck, van, SUV, or when towing a trailer, as these are more prone to be pushed or even flipped by high wind gusts.
If you are caught outside during high winds, take cover next to a building or under a secure shelter. Stand clear of roadways or train tracks as a gust may blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Use handrails where available, and avoid elevated areas such as roofs.
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