Stafford County

Small Craft Advisory issued March 23 at 2:14PM EDT until March 24 at 6:00AM EDT by NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC

2:14 PM — 10:15 PM

* WHAT...North winds 10 to 20 kt with gusts up to 30 kt. A few occasional gusts to 34 kts are possible this afternoon and early evening. * WHERE...Tidal Potomac River from Key Bridge to Smith Point VA, and Chesapeake Bay and adjoining estuaries north of Smith Point VA. * WHEN...Until 6 AM EDT Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Conditions will be hazardous to small craft.

Marine Weather Statement issued March 23 at 2:02PM EDT by NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC

2:02 PM — 5:00 PM

A few sporadic northwesterly wind gusts to gale force remain possible through the afternoon hours across the northern and central portions of the tidal Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay behind a strong secondary boundary. Inexperienced mariners in small craft should be prepared for hazardous conditions or consider staying in port.

Special Weather Statement issued March 23 at 9:50AM EDT by NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC

9:50 AM — 5:00 PM

The combination of dry fuels, relative humidities around 25 to 30 percent, and north to northwest wind gusts around 30 to 40 mph will lead to an increased risk for the rapid spread of wildfires today. Residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. Additionally, exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks and keep vehicles off of dry grass. Dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter are the most at risk to ignite and spread rapidly. Lastly, remember to obey local burn bans. For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions, and wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state forestry or environmental protection website. For Virginia, visit dof.virginia.gov

Special Weather Statement issued March 23 at 4:07AM EDT by NWS Wakefield VA

4:07 AM — 7:00 PM

* TIMING: From 1 PM Monday until 7 PM Monday evening. * WINDS...Northwest 10 to 15 mph with gusts to 20-25 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 25 to 30 percent. * TEMPERATURES...In the low to mid 70s. * IMPACTS...Low relative humidities and breezy northwest winds could produce favorable conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread today. Residents are urged to exercise caution handling any potential ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. Be sure to properly discard all smoking materials. Any dry grasses and tree litter that ignite will have the potential to spread quickly. Virginia residents are reminded that open burning is prohibited before 4 PM each day through April 30th. The lowest relative humidity will come from mid to late afternoon on Monday, so any burning is highly discouraged.

Construction Vehicles on Scenic Drive

On a section of Scenic Drive near Cabin Camp 3, a culvert under the road was recently replaced. Use caution and follow posted speed limits. Be aware of construction vehicles on the roadway in this area.

Playground in Pine Grove Picnic Area Closed

The park is improving accessibility at the playground in Pine Grove Picnic Area. During construction, until approximately the end of December 2025, the playground is closed and 10 nearby parking spaces will be used for construction vehicles only.