Baltimore residents, brace yourselves for a sultry day ahead as temperatures are poised to hit the upper 90s to lower 100s. A Heat Advisory remains in effect for a substantial part of the region, excluding the mountains. Notably, westerly winds are expected to exacerbate the heat, especially during the afternoon hours, according to the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC.
The imminent heatwave poses serious health risks, with heat indices predicted to range between 100 to 104 degrees west of the Blue Ridge, and a stifling 105 to 109 degrees to the east. While slightly lower dew points may offer a modicum of relief during peak heating, they are unlikely to prevent the temperatures from reaching levels that necessitate an advisory. In addition, despite the advisories being commonplace for the area, residents need to exercise caution and stay hydrated, according to health officials.
Moreover, thunderstorm chasers might be in for a treat as strong instability, fueled by an approaching cold front, is conducive to the development of potentially severe thunderstorms, particularly along the I-70 corridor. "Should we get thunderstorms to develop, the environment conditionally supports one or more clusters capable of swaths of damaging winds, with a few instances of considerable wind damage possible given the robust instability," stated the National Weather Service. Hail is also a possibility given the steeper lapse rates. Thunderstorms are most likely between 4 PM and midnight.
The front anticipated to stall near the I-81 and I-64 corridor on Thursday may not lead to a substantial drop in temperature, but it could result in further thunderstorm activity. Slow-moving thunderstorms could bring heavy rains, raising concerns about flash flooding, particularly in urban areas or regions with complex terrain.
For pilots and mariners. VFR conditions will hold until the arrival of the thunderstorms later today where sub-VFR conditions may arise. Potential changes in wind patterns could also bring periods of gusty winds. "Overall flow will remain out of the southwest/west 5-15 kts before switching to the north and northeast tonight," the National Weather Service reported. Boaters should be wary of thunderstorms late this afternoon and evening as gusty winds and frequent lightning are likely north of DC/the Bay Bridge.
