Emergency


Burke Microburst Incident

National Weather Service Determines Microburst Hit Burke

A severe thunderstorm produced a strong downburst one mile northwest of Burke with peak winds estimated 90 mph around Lake Royal. Through this area, many, though not all, of the trees were snapped midway, uprooted, or had large branches snapped off. Trees fell onto cars, powerlines, roads, and homes with substantial damage.

 

View Weather Service Report

Support for Residents

Updated July 14

From July 15-29, any individual resident impacted by the June microburst storm incident may bring materials for disposal at no charge to the I-66 Transfer Station or I-95 Landfill. All disposal fees have been waived by the Board of Supervisors for individual residents who identify themselves as being impacted by the storm to county staff at the facility scales. The fee waiver does not apply to contractors, junk haulers, or solid waste collection companies with a certificate to operate from Fairfax County.

Households experiencing issues can call Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880 for assistance with emergency food, resources and possible financial assistance.

Residents displaced by the recent storm in Fairfax County can also call the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for immediate assistance with shelter, food and other support. 


Disaster Recovery Resources

After a disaster, there is typically a lot of work to be done to aid in the cleanup and reconstruction of the affected area. 

During this time, there are many different types of scams that can trick you. Some examples of fraud following a disaster include contractor solicitation, insurance fraud, and charity scams. 

  • File insurance claims as soon as possible
  • Contact your insurance company and file a claim before applying for any government individual assistance.
  • Photograph or video all damage sustained and create lists of damaged items, including model numbers, estimated value, and photos.
  • File your insurance claims before you start any repairs.
  • Keep receipts for any disaster-related expenses you have made, such as lodging, medical, repair, and cleaning supplies, etc. 

 

REPORT FRAUD: 

National Center for Disaster Fraud: 1-866-720-5721 (Disaster Fraud Hotline) 
The National Center for Disaster Fraud seeks to improve and further the detection, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of fraud related to natural and man-made disasters, and to advocate for the victims of such fraud. 

Fairfax County Police: 703-691-2131, TTY 711 (Non-Emergency Line)

Damage Assessment Placards

Our Land Development Services team inspects homes following incidents like microbursts. Here's what the color-coded placards mean: 

  • White: structure has not yet been inspected or cannot be accessed safely
  • Green: structure can be occupied safely
  • Yellow: use is limited to safe parts of the structure or for temporary clearing of belongings
  • Red: no entry is permitted because the structure is unsafe or permanently uninhabitable

  • 1. Disaster Recovery Process
  • 2. Initial Actions
  • 3. Property Assessment
  • 4. Project Scope Determination
  • 5. Permits and Construction

Fairfax County Storm Center

For future storms, visit our Storm Center to:

  • Report power outages
  • Report downed trees

For immediate life-safety issues, call or text 9-1-1.

Q&A

Based on the damage assessments completed and all available information, the impacts from this storm do not currently meet the federal criteria for a disaster declaration that includes FEMA Individual Assistance (IA). Such assistance is authorized only when the severity and magnitude of a disaster exceed the combined capabilities of local and state resources. At this time, the documented impacts do not meet that threshold. 

Does homeowners insurance cover tree damage?  

Coverage depends on your policy. Residents should contact their insurance provider to find out what is covered and whether tree damage to the home or other insured structures is included.

Will parks clean-up trails? 

Work around Lake Royal Park is ongoing with all trails back open.  To report a problem, contact Fairfax County Park Operations at FCPAParkMaintenance@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-8594.

Will insurance cover debris removal?  

Some policies may cover debris removal, but coverage varies. Residents should review their policy and contact their insurance provider to understand what debris removal expenses may be eligible for reimbursement.

If a neighbor's tree fell on my property, whose insurance pays?  

Insurance coverage and liability depend on the specific circumstances of the incident and the terms of the applicable insurance policies. Residents should document the damage and contact their insurance provider for guidance on filing a claim.

Tree Resources

Will this impact the value of my home?  

Homeowners can request an inspection of Land Development Services (LDS) building inspectors when they have experienced property damage to their homes caused by natural disasters or presents structural impacts, such as a fallen tree, flood or fire. Request an inspection for damage assessment.

How do I document damage for insurance claims?  

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process and determine what documentation may be required. If it is safe to do so, take photos and videos of all damage before beginning cleanup. Document the date, time, and location of the damage, and create a detailed inventory of damaged property. Keep notes of any actions taken, save receipts for emergency repairs, debris removal, temporary lodging, and other storm-related expenses, and retain copies of communications with your insurance provider.  

Should I hire an arborist before removing damaged trees?  

If a tree is damaged but not posing an immediate hazard, consider consulting a certified arborist to assess its condition and determine whether it can be saved or should be removed. If a tree is in contact with power lines, stay away and contact the utility company immediately. Do not attempt to remove trees entangled in electrical equipment.

How do I get a new damage assessment?  

If you would like a new or updated damage assessment report, you can submit a report through the Department of Land Development Services.

Why wasn't there more warning before the damage occurred? 

This type of storm can develop very quickly, and damaging winds from a microburst may occur with little advance notice even when thunderstorms are already in the forecast. To help receive weather warnings and emergency updates in the future, residents are encouraged to sign up for Fairfax Alerts.

How do I report a downed tree in a park, along a trail, or on county property? 

Report the tree using the county’s tree resources page so the issue can be routed to the agency that maintains that property.  

Tree Resources

Who is responsible for tree removal and clean up?  

Responsibly of tree removal is dependent on the location of the tree. For any trees in Homeowner Association common areas, the responsibility will fall onto the designated HOA. For any trees within private property, the responsibility falls unto that land or homeowner. For public roads Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is responsible and is continuing clean-up efforts. Please note that some roads may be privately owned and belong to the HOA. For any County owned land or areas responsibility may fall across multiple agencies. Find information about downed trees here.  

Can the County help with dumpsters for clean-up efforts? 

Find location, hours, resources, or information on trash, dumpsters or general waste details here.

How can I report scammers? 

Consumer Affairs aids with filing consumer complaints, understanding solicitor law and spotting scams. Visit our Consumer Affairs webpage. 

Where can I find mental health resources?

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, Emergency Services are available at the Sharon Bulova Center, or a Mobile Crisis Unit may be able to respond. You can contact the Mobile Crisis Unit at their number 703-573-5679 TTY 711 or online via the Mobile Crisis Unit webpage.

The American Red Cross remains committed to supporting the community in the aftermath of this event and is available to provide emotional support and spiritual care through trained and licensed responders. If you or your loved ones would like to speak to someone, you can reach out at 1-800-REDCROSS.

For ongoing mental health services, start by contacting your primary care provider or health insurance company to learn what services are covered. If you do not have insurance or aren’t sure where to turn, contact the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) to discuss available options and community resources at 703-383-8500 TTY 71, csb@fairfaxcounty.gov, or the Community Services Board webpage.

 

Air Quality

Air Quality Index

The Air Quality Index tells you when high levels of air pollution are predicted/present and how air pollution affects your health. 

Who needs to be concerned when air quality reaches these levels?

  • Code Yellow: Some people who may be unusually sensitive to particle pollution.
     
  • Code Orange: Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teenagers, minority populations, and outdoor workers.
     
  • Code Red: Everyone
     
  • Code Purple: Everyone
     
  • Code Maroon: Everyone
     

Get the latest county air quality conditions, forecasts, maps and email alerts from AirNow.gov. 

View Current Air Quality and Forecasts

10 Air Quality Safety Tips

  1. Avoid intense outdoor activities.
  2. Move activities indoors or reschedule when possible.
  3. Keep outdoor time short and take frequent breaks.
  4. Use air conditioners or air purifiers and replace filters regularly.
  5. Keep windows and doors closed, however...
  6. If you don't have an air conditioner, staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in extremely hot weather. If you are hot, go someplace with air conditioning, visit a cooling center or use other ways to cool down.
  7. Ensure inhalers or oxygen are accessible and working.
  8. Seek immediate medical care for trouble breathing, chest tightness or irregular heartbeat.
  9. If you have a lung condition, consider wearing a well‑fitting mask outside.
  10. Outdoor workers and their employers should work together to adjust outdoor work schedules and arrange frequent breaks as needed.
View Health Department's Air Quality Information

Ozone Pollution

Let's say that the ozone level in the county is predicted to be Code Orange. If you're a runner (even if you're healthy) that air quality could hurt you. Plan your run for when ozone levels will be lower, shorten your run or walk instead, or run on a treadmill indoors.
 

Particle Pollution

Particle pollution has been linked to heart attacks and strokes, and even death in people with heart disease. On a day when particle pollution will be at Code Orange or higher, do something less intense. Walk instead of run or do only lighter outdoor work.

Fire/Smoke Pollution

The whole county may be impacted by wildfire smoke from neighboring states or countries. Smaller areas of the county could see poor air quality due to large local fires or mulch fires. Everyone in affected areas should reduce their exposure to any source of smoke. 

According to our Health Department, poor air quality can cause:

  • More severe or frequent allergy symptoms, such as red or itchy eyes, congestion, scratchy throat, sneezing, headaches, and fatigue
  • Worse or more frequent asthma attacks
  • Worsening of respiratory illness, heart disease, kidney disease, and other conditions
  • Higher risk of new health issues, like heart attacks, asthma, allergies, and raised blood pressure

Everyone can be affected by poor air quality, but some groups are more at risk than others.

  • Older adults, children and people who are pregnant, because they can be more affected by air pollution, pollen, wildfire smoke, and other environmental conditions.
     
  • People with medical conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory disease, or asthma, because poor air quality can worsen health conditions and increase strain on the body.
     
  • People who work or exercise outside, such as construction workers, landscapers, emergency responders, and student athletes, because they often perform strenuous activity while outdoors.
     
  • People of color, due to higher rates of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart disease, and higher chance of living in areas with heavy pollution.
     
  • Socially or economically disadvantaged communities, because they are more likely to lack access to quality housing, transportation, and affordable healthcare, and are often located in areas with more pollution.
     
  • People experiencing homelessness, due to amount of time spent outside and lower access to affordable healthcare.

Protect your health from poor air quality by taking the following actions:

1. Reduce your exposure when air quality is poor:

  • Stay inside as much as possible and keep windows and doors closed.
  • When outside, choose shorter or less intense activities and take more breaks.
  • When driving, use your car’s air recirculation mode to keep pollution and allergens outside.

2. Make an emergency plan:

  • Keep a month’s supply of important medicines, especially if you have asthma, allergies, or a lung disease such as COPD.
  • Make sure prescribed breathing aids, such as inhalers, oxygen, and CPAP/BiPAP, are accessible and working correctly.
  • Keep an updated list of medications, dosages, allergies, and medical conditions for each member of your household.

3. Protect your home to keep indoor air clean:

  • If your home has an HVAC system, use high-efficiency filters and change them regularly.
  • If you don’t have an HVAC system, consider portable air purifiers or box fans to help filter and keep air circulating.
  • Use caulk to seal cracks around windows and doors to limit pollution from getting in.

4. Seek medical care:

  • Talk to your doctor about medications and treatment options for your health conditions so you can be prepared year-round.
  • Get medical care right away for urgent symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, or heart palpitations.

5. Stay informed:

  • Check your local air quality at www.AirNow.gov and learn what the different colors mean.
  • Keep an eye on local pollen and heat forecasts using a weather app or trusted news source.
  • Sign up for emergency alerts with Fairfax Alerts.
     

Quail Pond Court Area Incident

Ongoing Monitoring

Washington Gas has implemented a phased monitoring plan for Belle Plains Drive to ensure continued safety.

Immediate Survey Area (Belle Plains Drive evacuees – see Immediate Survey Area map)

Four monitoring checks daily during the first week:

  • Once daily for the following two weeks
  • Once weekly for two additional weeks
  • Every other week thereafter (time TBD)

Expanded Survey Area (see Expanded Survey Area map)

  • Weekly gas leak surveys in the expanded area for one month

 

NTSB Information

The investigation into the incident is being led by the National Transportation Safety Board. The NTSB released their preliminary report on Monday, March 16.


More Information

Elkheart Court, Knoughton Way, Locust Grove Court and the northside of Belle Plains Drive can reoccupy their homes.

Re-entry safety information: Information for Customers Impacted in Centreville

The American Red Cross remains committed to supporting the community in the aftermath of this event and is available to provide emotional support and spiritual care through trained and licensed responders. If you or your loved ones would like to speak to someone, you can reach out at 1-800-REDCROSS.

Feb. 26 Town Hall Meeting

Feb. 18 News Conference

Safety Tips

 

  • Leave immediately. Get everyone out of the building.
  • Do NOT turn lights on or off.
  • Do NOT use phones, appliances, or anything electrical inside.
  • Do NOT light matches or candles.
  • Do NOT try to locate the leak yourself.
  • Once safely outside, call 911 and your gas company.

 

  • Smell of rotten eggs.
  • Hissing or whistling sounds near gas lines.
  • Dead or dying vegetation near a gas line.
  • Bubbling in standing water.

 

  • Know how to shut off your gas — but only turn it off if instructed by authorities or your utility company.
  • Make sure your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide alarm.
  • Keep flashlights accessible — avoid using candles during outages.
  • Have a family evacuation plan and a meeting place outside your neighborhood.

 

  • Follow instructions from local officials.
  • Be prepared for possible evacuations.
  • If asked to evacuate, bring essentials and leave immediately.
  • Do not return home until officials say it is safe.
  • Gas leaks are serious and can quickly become life-threatening. When in doubt — get out and call for help.

According to the Residential Fuel Gas Alarms guidance from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), gas alarms should be tested, listed, and labeled by a recognized third-party laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Intertek. Install alarms in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions—typically near fuel-burning appliances, in basements or attached garages where fuel gas enters the home, and outside sleeping areas for early notification. Alarms should be inspected and tested at least monthly, or as directed by the manufacturer, to ensure they are functioning properly.

Donating and Volunteering During an Emergency

Donating During Disasters

Donation needs are identified after a disaster, when specific items or funds are needed to support those affected.

When donations are being accepted, this page will include:

  • A list of accepted items
  • Drop-off locations for in-person donations
  • Information on the local organizations accepting monetary contributions

 

Volunteering During Disasters

Fairfax County offers several ways for residents to become affiliated or assigned volunteers, meaning they are trained and connected to a specific county department before an emergency occurs. These volunteers are activated as part of the county’s coordinated disaster response.

Opportunities are available across many county departments as noted below. These assigned volunteer programs ensure Fairfax County has trained, ready, and reliable individuals who can be called upon to serve their community.

Donations Information

  • None at this time. 

Please check back here on this page for up-to-date information on where and how to donate locally during a disaster. Waiting for official guidance before donating ensures your support is safe, effective and coordinated.

1.) What’s the best way to help — donate money, goods, or time?

The best way to help after a disaster is to donate money. Monetary donations give agencies the flexibility to buy exactly what is needed, when it’s needed.

 

2.) Can I donate clothes, food, or other items?

Fairfax County will provide a list of items that are being collected during a disaster. While we appreciate all donations, we ask that the public only donate items on the approved list to ensure contributions are useful, safe, and can be effectively distributed to those in need.

 

3.) Where can I donate items if they are being accepted?

Fairfax County will provide a list of donation collection sites. Never drop off items in locations unless they are officially requested.

 

4.) How do I make sure my donation is going to a legitimate organization?

Fairfax County will post information on which organizations are collecting funds on behalf of the county if a particular incident requires donations, ensuring your contribution goes to a trusted and authorized organization.

 

5.) Can I start my own donation drive or fundraiser?

Please do not start your own collections. If you would like to contribute, please donate only the items the county is accepting at the designated locations or consider signing up to volunteer to support disaster response efforts.

 

Volunteer Information

Department of Animal Sheltering: 

 

Department of Emergency Management and Security:

  • Emergency Management Volunteer Corps – Trained volunteers who promote preparedness and support public outreach.
  • Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) – Licensed amateur radio operators who provide emergency communications support.
  • Volunteer Emergency Team (VET) – A group of volunteers who have signed up to be called upon during emergencies or disasters to support Fairfax County’s response and recovery efforts.
  • VET Leader – Trained members of the Volunteer Emergency Team who help set up and manage Volunteer Reception Centers (VRCs), assisting with coordinating spontaneous volunteers and coordinate donation collection if needed.
  • https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergencymanagement

 

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department:

 

Fairfax County Health Department:

  • Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) – Medical and non-medical volunteers who assist with public health emergencies, such as mass vaccination clinics or shelter operations.
  • Fairfax Medical Reserve Corps | Health

 

Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD):

1.) How can I volunteer to help during a disaster?

During a disaster, Fairfax County will call upon volunteers that are already affiliated with the county to fill volunteer opportunities. Learn more about volunteer opportunities above.

 

2.) Can I just show up to help?

No, in Fairfax County affiliated volunteers are requested to fill volunteer needs. We ask that anyone interested in disaster response volunteering sign up through one of our affiliated organizations before a disaster strikes. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit the volunteer opportunities.

 

3.) What kind of volunteer work is usually needed after a disaster?

Typical needs include:

  • Debris cleanup
  • Donation sorting and distribution
  • Flow controller
  • Data entry

 

4.) Do I need special training to volunteer?

Some roles require training, while others don’t. We strongly encourage those interested in volunteering to sign up before a disaster strikes. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit the volunteer section above.

 

5.) Can youth or teens volunteer?

Depending on the situation, youth and teens may be able to participate in volunteer opportunities. The requirements (including age restrictions or volunteering with a parent/guardian) will be displayed for each available volunteer opportunity.

 

6.) I’m a trained professional (nurse, EMT, social worker). How can I help?

Register with the Fairfax County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). MRC accepts medical and non-medical volunteers who assist with public health emergencies, such as mass vaccination clinics or shelter operations.

 

7.) What if I want to volunteer virtually?

Some organizations offer virtual or remote roles. All available volunteer opportunities will be posted.

 

8.) Are volunteers still needed after the immediate response?

Absolutely. Recovery can take months or years. Volunteers are essential for rebuilding, community outreach, and supporting affected families long after the headlines fade. You can visit the volunteer section at the top of this page for available opportunities.

 

Storm Center

Current Watches, Warnings and Advisories

Additional forecasts:  Flood  |  Heat  |  Air Quality  |  Drought  |  Snow 

 

View National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington

Report Power Outages

Report power outages to your utility provider: 

power lines

Power Outage TIPS

Report Downed Trees

For immediate life-safety issues, call or text 9-1-1.

If you see downed trees or wires on roads, sidewalks, county government property and private property, then learn who to contact.

downed tree

Who to Contact for Downed Trees

Report Flooding

For immediate life-safety issues, call or text 9-1-1.

If you see storm drainage system flooding, issues with a stormwater pond or street flooding, then learn who to contact.

road flooding

 Who to Contact About Flooding 

Traffic Links

Detailed Storm Types

Ready Fairfax

Ready Fairfax asks you and your neighbors to take four actions: (1) stay informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses; (2) make an emergency plan; (3) build an emergency kit; and (4) get involved in your community by taking action to prepare for emergencies.

Learn More About Ready Fairfax

Resilient Fairfax

The climate in Fairfax County is becoming warmer, wetter and weirder. Extreme heat, flooding, severe storms, and other changing hazards repeatedly impact our neighborhoods, infrastructure, services, and natural resources. Resilient Fairfax is the county's climate adaptation and resilience plan.

Learn More About Resilient Fairfax
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