UPDATE: Flash Flood Warning, Tornado Watch in Effect

The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm and flash flood warning, as well as a tornado watch, for Loudoun County.

At 11:11 a.m., severe storms were detected along a line extending from Charlestown to Bluemont. They were moving Northeast at 45 mph and are capable of producing damaging winds in excess of 60 mph, according to the National Weather Service online.

A tornado watch is also in effect for the Loudoun County area until 7 p.m. tonight. This means that there is a potential for tornadoes to develop.

A number of tips for tornado safety are available on the county's website, including:

• If you are caught outside when a tornado strikes, try to find shelter immediately in the nearest substantial building. If buildings are not close, take cover by lying down flat in a ditch or depression. Never attempt to seek shelter under an overpass.
• If you are in your vehicle, get out of the vehicle and seek shelter in a sturdy building. If shelter is not immediately available, lay flat in a ditch or depression and protect yourself from flying debris.
• The best shelter from a tornado is a basement. If you do not have a basement, go to an interior room without windows on the lowest level of your home. Protect your body from flying debris with a heavy blanket or sleeping bag.

More information can be found here.

Patch will continue to keep you updated throughout the day.