As Baltimore and the greater Washington, D.C. area brace for a mix of weather, a warm front is on the climb, trailing a cold front that is set to make landfall by the weekend. The National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC emphasizes that potential thunderstorms might rock the area with gusty to locally damaging winds, particularly as we head into the peak heating afternoon hours today. There's also a slight chance of brief tornado spin-ups, specifically favored by merged storm systems near bay and river breezes.
In what could seem like the annual battle between the elements, moisture is upping its game with precipitable water (PW) values aiming for the 1.75-2 inches mark east of the Blue Ridge and Catoctin Mountains by evening. The National Weather Service warns of a conditional flood threat for urban locales, where the water can collect faster than it can recede. No flood watch has been issued yet, but officials are keeping a keen eye on any shifts that may trigger advisories.
The coming days are forecast to bring rises in temperatures with the mercury potentially hitting the steamy mid to upper 90s mark near and east of I-95. The forecast is courtesy of a turn in low-level flow to the west-of-south which should usher in sunnier skies and a mild dip in dew points, giving locals a break from the sticky grip of humidity even if for a fleeting moment. Thunderstorm action, while still a possibility, is expected to be more isolated come Wednesday.
For sailors and weekend warriors looking to take to the seas, caution is the word. The National Weather Service anticipates southerly gusts of 20-25 knots continuing into this evening, coupled with a potential lineup of thunderstorms that could pose hazards with strong winds, lightning, and even a rogue waterspout or hail.
Wrapping up the maritime concerns, those living by the water's edge should note that elevated water levels might flirt with minor flooding thresholds due to persistent southerly flows. However, any significant overflow into streets and basements should simmer down as winds adopt a westerly tack by Thursday.
