On Wednesday, severe storms and tornadoes tore through Maryland and Virginia, leaving behind widespread destruction and triggering significant power outages across the region. The National Weather Service verified the touchdown of two tornadoes in the DMV area— one in Leesburg, Virginia, and another in Poolesville, Maryland.
Power Outages in Maryland and Virginia
By 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dominion Energy reported 71 customers without power in Northern Virginia, with two outages caused by trees falling on power lines. Restoration efforts are estimated to be completed by 2 a.m. Thursday. In Maryland, Pepco reported 657 customers without power, with power restoration anticipated by 10 a.m. Thursday.
Structural Damage and Rescues in Maryland
The impact of the storm in Gaithersburg, Maryland, was severe, with five buildings collapsing and multiple individuals trapped inside. A likely tornado caused a tree to fall onto a home on Dogwood Drive, trapping five people. Four individuals were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, while one person was transported to a trauma center. Emergency crews responded to at least four incidents involving trees falling on homes.
Other incidents reported in Gaithersburg included a tree falling on a house on Peony Drive, resulting in no injuries, and a tree falling on a house on the 100 block of Winnie Place.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue established an Area Command at Walnut Hill Shopping Center in Gaithersburg, conducting door-to-door checks to assist residents in need.
Poolesville Tornado
A tornado was confirmed in Poolesville, Maryland. The National Weather Service categorized the storm in Montgomery County as a “particularly dangerous situation” (PDS). Pete Piringer, spokesperson for Montgomery County Fire and Rescue, shared a video of the tornado in Poolesville.
In Sykesville, Carroll County, authorities received reports of a potential tornado near Bartholow Road and Sarah Drive. The Sykesville Fire Department documented damage to at least 10 structures.
Harford County witnessed severe flooding, resulting in streets in Abingdon being submerged. Multiple individuals had to be rescued from their vehicles due to swiftly rising water levels.
Officials are urging residents to steer clear of downed power lines and promptly report any live wires or safety hazards by dialing 911.
Dedicated restoration crews and emergency responders are tirelessly working to reinstate power and ensure the safety of affected residents. The community is advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions as cleanup endeavors progress.
