Baltimore/ Weather & Environment
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Published on June 28, 2024
Baltimore and DC on Alert for Severe Weekend Weather, Thunderstorms and Heat Wave in ForecastSource: Flickr user: Mark Peters https://www.flickr.com/people/sneakerdog, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC has issued an update regarding the weather conditions for the coming days, warning residents in the Baltimore area of the potential for severe weather over the weekend. According to the National Weather Service, a high-pressure system will be moving in from the west today before exiting late tonight, leading to a warmer and more humid Saturday with possible showers and thunderstorms.

Temperatures are poised to reach the upper 80s to low 90s on Saturday, with apparent temperatures nearing the 100-mark in certain locations east of the Blue Ridge. "High pressure moves offshore, south/southwesterly return flow will usher in a warmer, more humid air mass for Saturday." cited the National Weather Service. Thunderstorms looming for the weekend carry a severe potential, particularly in the western MD and WV panhandle, severe threat could extend into the overnight, especially along our mountain west as per the National Weather Service.

As per the forecast, the cold front is scheduled to approach from the west by Sunday morning and is expected to bring similar weather conditions until its projected passage in the evening. The potential for severe weather continues well into Sunday, with the most impactful area expected to be east of the Blue Ridge during the day’s peak heat. Furthermore, an impressive high-pressure system is set to usher in cooler temperatures and considerably lower humidity levels early next week, the National Weather Department Service is providing a respite from the heat with highs ranging from the upper 70s to low 80s and dew points in the upper 40s to mid-50s.

For those hitting the skies, aviation forecasts suggest mostly dry conditions into Friday under high pressure, but starting Saturday, Sub-VFR conditions might be in store with the warm front expected to trigger not only showers but the chance for severe thunderstorms. Meanwhile, mariners are advised to stay alert as Small Craft Advisory conditions have been declared over the waters due to northeastern flow, and similar advisory conditions may persist over the weekend as a warm front passes, potentially elevating the risk of waterspouts. Coastal areas, particularly around Annapolis and Havre de Grace, are forecasted to see a rise in water levels potentially reaching minor flood stage late Saturday night into Sunday. However, the passage of a cold front Sunday evening is expected to reverse this trend heading into the new work week.

The NWS update concludes by noting the long-term view which indicates possible near to above-average temperatures extending through Independence Day, with increased chances for showers and thunderstorms as the week progresses; while the immediate threat for more heat is still being assessed for the subsequent weekend by the Climate Prediction Center. Boaters and coastal dwellers should keep an eye on the evolving conditions, especially those planning activities over the patriotic holiday.