Severe storms and tornadoes swept through Maryland and Virginia on Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction and causing significant power outages across the region. The National Weather Service confirmed that two tornadoes touched down in the DMV area—one in Leesburg, Virginia, and another in Poolesville, Maryland.
Power Outages
As of 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dominion Energy reported 71 customers without power in Northern Virginia, with two outages attributed to trees falling on power lines. The restoration is expected by 2 a.m. Thursday. In Maryland, Pepco reported 657 customers without power, with restoration anticipated by 10 a.m. Thursday.
Structural Damage and Rescues in Maryland
In Gaithersburg, Maryland, the storm's impact was severe, with five buildings collapsing and multiple people trapped inside. A likely tornado toppled a tree onto a home on Dogwood Drive, trapping five individuals. Four were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, while one person was taken to a trauma center. Emergency crews responded to at least four incidents involving trees falling on homes.
Other reported incidents in Gaithersburg included: A tree on a house on Peony Drive, with no injuries and a tree 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 classified the Montgomery County storm 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, a possible tornado was reported near Bartholow Road and Sarah Drive. The Sykesville Fire Department reported damage to at least 10 structures.
Harford County experienced severe flooding, with streets in Abingdon inundated. Several people were rescued from their vehicles due to rapidly rising water levels.
Officials urge residents to avoid downed power lines and to report any live wires or safety hazards by calling 911 immediately.
Restoration crews and emergency responders are working tirelessly to restore power and ensure the safety of residents affected by the storms. The community is encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as cleanup efforts continue.
