Baltimore

Baltimore Braces for High Heat and Storms, with Air and Sea Travel Caution Advisories

AI Assisted Icon
Published on July 31, 2024
Baltimore Braces for High Heat and Storms, with Air and Sea Travel Caution AdvisoriesSource: Chris6d, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Baltimore residents can expect a mix of heat, humidity, and possible storms through the end of this week, with the weather pattern stabilizing early next week. Today the temperatures are projected to soar into the 90s, with a slight respite from the potential extremity of the heat provided by a westerly wind keeping heat index values between 95-100, according to the National Weather Service.

As the week progresses, the heat and humidity will continue to ramp up, with the possibility of showers and thunderstorms increasing towards the weekend when a cold front from the Ohio Valley moves through the region. The National Weather Service warns that the fierce heat, predicted to hit mid to upper 90s Thursday and Friday, could push heat index values up to a sweltering 100 to 110 degrees.

Aviation forecasts suggest generally favorable flying conditions outside of thunderstorm activity, with an uptick in disruptive weather likely on Friday as storms become more widespread with an approaching cold front. Pilots should be prepared for sub-VFR conditions and gusty winds near thunderstorms, especially on Saturday when a stronger upper-level energy swings through the area.

Mariners on the Chesapeake Bay will encounter lighter winds today but should anticipate stronger south/southwest flows towards the end of the week, possibly reaching Small Craft Advisory levels by Friday. Thunderstorms remain a concern daily through the weekend, potentially necessitating Special Marine Warnings for those on the water.