As high pressure continues to be the dominant weather pattern, Baltimore and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region can anticipate another day of dry, sunny skies, as reported by National Weather Service. Residents should enjoy the relatively mild conditions, with today's highs reaching the mid-80s and higher elevations experiencing temperatures in the low to mid-70s. Overnight, we're looking at slightly warmer lows in the 60s for most areas, a tick up from last night.
Wednesday is expected to bring a warming trend as temperatures rise into the mid-80s to low 90s. This gentle escalation is attributed to an upper-level ridge building over the coast. The high pressure that has been lingering overhead will gradually move offshore, allowing for a return flow that could usher in some muggy, moist air. Despite a slight chance of showers and a simmer of thunderstorms in the mix for Wednesday night going into Thursday, much of the locale should remain dry.
However, celebrations for the Fourth of July may get heated in more ways than one. Forecasters point to a continuing temperature surge with the mercury jumping into the mid-90s, while heat indices might crack the 100-degree mark in some spots. "Instability increases throughout the day with SBCAPE values exceeding 1500 J/Kg," according to National Weather Service.
Heading into the weekend, expect the weather pattern to turn more tumultuous. A frontal boundary stalled over our area is gearing up to serve scattered to widespread afternoon thunderstorms on both Friday and Saturday. Temperatures will continue scorching into the low to mid-90s, yet the true sizzle will be felt in the high humidity levels that will likely push heat indices into that demanding 102-107 degree range.
Aviators should fly happily at least into Wednesday night, with VFR conditions projected by the NWS, before potential scattered showers and thunderstorms later in the week may cause visibility and wind issues at the terminals. Those heading out on the water are promised mild conditions initially before the potential for storm-related Special Marine Warnings kicks in closer to the weekend.
As for those by the coast, keep an eye out for rising tidal anomalies. Areas could see some minor flooding come Wednesday morning, with Annapolis potentially wading through the highest water levels. The National Weather Service advises that "additional periods of coastal flooding are possible during the morning high tides Thursday and Friday."
