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Centreville Today
By the People, for the People
Tornado Watch, Storm Warning Issued for Fairfax County
Severe thunderstorms and damaging winds expected this afternoon and evening
Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:35pm
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A Tornado Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning have been issued for Fairfax County, Virginia. The tornado watch took effect at 10:50 a.m. and is scheduled to remain in place until 7 p.m. today, as the National Weather Service forecasts thunderstorms and strong winds throughout the afternoon and evening. Severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds and tornadoes are likely, with the potential for significant damage from wind gusts of 70 to 80 mph as well as isolated stronger tornadoes.
Why it matters
Severe weather events like tornadoes and thunderstorms can cause significant property damage, power outages, and pose risks to public safety. The Fairfax County area has experienced an increase in extreme weather events in recent years, highlighting the need for residents and local authorities to be prepared and take appropriate precautions.
The details
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Fairfax County. Thunderstorms bringing 60 mph wind gusts have already been spotted in the Fredericksburg area, moving northeast toward Northern Virginia. The severe thunderstorm warning currently applies to southwestern Fairfax County but is expected to shift to other areas as the storm continues. Damaging winds could cause trees and large branches to fall, potentially injuring those outdoors and damaging homes and vehicles. Localized power outages are also possible.
- The tornado watch took effect at 10:50 a.m. on March 16, 2026 and is scheduled to remain in place until 7 p.m. the same day.
- Thunderstorms bringing 60 mph wind gusts were spotted in the Fredericksburg area and moving northeast toward Northern Virginia as of 11:17 a.m. on March 16, 2026.
The players
National Weather Service
The National Weather Service is a scientific agency of the United States government that is tasked with providing weather forecasts and warnings for the protection of life and property.
Fairfax County Fire/Rescue
The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department is the fire department serving Fairfax County, Virginia, providing fire suppression, emergency medical services, and other emergency response services to the community.
VDOT Northern VA
The Virginia Department of Transportation's Northern Virginia district, responsible for maintaining and improving the transportation infrastructure in the region.
Fairfax County Public Schools
The public school system serving Fairfax County, Virginia, one of the largest school districts in the United States.
George Mason University
A public research university located in Fairfax, Virginia, and the largest public university in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
What’s next
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the severe weather situation and provide updates on the tornado watch and thunderstorm warning throughout the afternoon and evening.
The takeaway
This severe weather event highlights the importance of being prepared for sudden and potentially dangerous storms, especially in areas prone to tornadoes and high winds. Residents should heed all warnings and take appropriate safety precautions to protect themselves and their property.
