Baltimore and Washington DC metro area residents can expect a mix of weather conditions going into the weekend, with remnants of Debby influencing the scene. According to the National Weather Service, the cold front that was affecting the area will move on, leading to an approaching system that promises to deliver a significant amount of rain. High pressure is anticipated to settle in after the event, promising clearer conditions.

The metro areas are currently experiencing dissipating showers and potential thunderstorms, with a few stray showers over the next few hours. Looking ahead, conditions are forecasted to be mostly dry into the early afternoon, seeing highs reaching the mid to upper 80s, and the upper 70s in the mountains. However, there’s an increase in showers and thunderstorm chances by late afternoon into early evening, with the possibility of isolated instances of flooding to occur given the recent rainfall and partially saturated soil east of the Blue Ridge. Overnight, expect a breeze with 10 to 15 mph gusts being possible.

As Thursday rolls in, attention turns to the remnants of Debby, which the NWS states will initially bring light to moderate rainfall from its outer bands, escalating by evening as the system edges northward across the region. Central Virginia may receive the brunt of the downpour, potentially seeing localized areas receive up to 10 inches of rain, though a westward path may spare metro areas the heaviest rainfall. A Flood Watch advisory might be issued, especially if heavier banding sets up over an area and produces a substantial amount of QPF over a shorter period.

Moreover, Debby's remnants could stir up potential weather hazards, including gusts of 20 to 30 mph, and possibly stronger ones amid powerful thunderstorms. "Widespread moderate to heavy rainfall will continue on Friday with sub-VFR conditions expected," the NWS predicts. The service has also advised mariners of the increased chance of gale-force winds in the open Chesapeake Bay waters nearer to the weekend.

In terms of coastal activity, we can expect onshore flows to strengthen through Thursday, peaking on Friday. With Debby's track indicating a westward and faster trend, widespread minor coastal flooding appears more probable Friday and Friday evening. Rising waters might even reach minor flood levels by Thursday evening in some sensitive spots. However, waters are projected to recede rapidly by early Saturday as Debby moves away.