As Baltimore braces itself for another sweltering day, the National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory in effect from 11 AM this morning to 8 PM this evening for multiple areas including, the DC area, parts of Maryland, Virginia, and the western shores of the Chesapeake. Baltimore and Washington DC are expected to hit the upper 90s with heat indices soaring between 105-108, according to the National Weather Service.
In specific spots such as St. Mary's County, conditions may be even more oppressive. The forecast indicates "heat indices between 110-113 for several hours through early evening." While the front drags its heels moving south, storms are expected to develop, posing potential risks of damaging winds, though the National Weather Service highlights, the "overall severe threat is very low." A separate Excessive Heat Warning has been issued for certain locales on the Western Shore like Baltimore.
Sunday is predicted to bring some respite as humidity takes a nose-dive with the passing of the front, and high pressure establishes its brief reign. However, this relief will be short-lived as high humidity makes a comeback early next week, reintroducing the daily thunderstorm lottery and high heat indices pushing past the 100 mark.
Looking towards the long-term weather pattern, a so-called Bermuda high will persist offshore through next week, resulting in a "pretty typical mid-summer pattern" with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms, particularly on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the NWS discussion. As for marine implications, there's a slight chance of thunderstorms impacting the lower Chesapeake waters, though conditions are expected to remain largely dry. Meanwhile, tides may inch towards minor flooding levels due to sustained southern winds, an ongoing concern for vulnerable coastlines.
The sweltering forecast has led to advisories for heightened heat awareness and safety measures throughout the affected regions. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, stay indoors during peak heat if possible, and keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. With air travel, general VFR conditions are expected, but passengers should remain aware of potential afternoon thunderstorms which may temporarily disrupt flights.
