The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for the Washington metropolitan area until 8:00 p.m. this evening.

This is an indication that conditions could produce a tornado, but that no tornadoes have been sighted at this time.

Note that this is a tornado watch -- a lower level of alert -- not a tornado warning. Personnel at school and school facilities are urged to be alert to weather conditions and take appropriate precautions.

At this time, afternoon and evening activities at schools will continue as scheduled.