SOUTHERN MARYLAND — A tornado watch is now in effect Thursday afternoon and evening for Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties, adding to an earlier severe thunderstorm watch as the severe weather threat increases across the region.
The National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office issued the tornado watch at 3:01 p.m. Aug. 20, 2026. It remains in effect until 10 p.m.
The new watch includes all three Southern Maryland counties, along with other parts of Maryland, the District of Columbia and portions of Virginia.
The tornado watch replaces a portion of Severe Thunderstorm Watch 604, which had been issued earlier Thursday afternoon.
Storm Prediction Center outlooks place Southern Maryland in a Slight Risk, or Level 2 of 5, for severe thunderstorms, with damaging winds remaining a primary concern.
Much of the region is within an area carrying a 30% to 44% probability of severe thunderstorm winds within 25 miles of a location.
A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms to develop in and near the watch area. Residents should remain alert for possible tornado or severe thunderstorm warnings and be prepared to move to a safe location if a warning is issued.
The tornado watch remains in effect until 10 p.m. Thursday.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!