The forecast in Baltimore and Washington predicts overcast skies and potential showers continuing through tonight, as per their early morning report. According to the National Weather Service, a looming cold front will reach the area by Thursday as Tropical Storm Helene progresses northward from the Gulf of Mexico into the southern Appalachians, heightening concerns for significant rainfall in portions of Central Virginia by Friday. Beyond, the weekend promises a build-up of high pressure from the north, although rain chances persist heading into next week.
Today's weather conditions remain at the mercy of a persistent frontal boundary and a CAD wedge blanketing the region. The latter tying highs to the low to mid-70s and keeping the night's temperatures in a milder mid- to upper-60s. An amplified mid/upper-level pattern takes shape, with a notable mid-level trough over the Midwest seceding southeastward. This weather dance could culminate in enhanced shower activity and heavy rainfall along the I-64 corridor and Highland County.
The short-term forecast ushers in somewhat drier conditions by Thursday afternoon, as southerly winds potentially displace some cloudiness, though showers may linger along the I-64 corridor. The path of the remnants of Helene is anticipated to make landfall along the northeast Gulf this Thursday evening, and their march toward the Tennessee Valley and Southern Appalachians by night cast a damp outlook as deep tropical moisture could bring widespread rain and showers into Friday. The sustained downfall may lead to high rain chances and the possibility of higher rain amounts, which could lead to flooding issues if they materialize, as described by the National Weather Service.
Mariners should note that a high-pressure movement over New England heading offshore will steer the winds southeastward this afternoon into tonight, with a small craft advisory issued southward from Pooles Island. The approaching remnants of Tropical Storm Helene suggest a likelihood of Small Craft Advisory conditions into the weekend due to the anticipated surge of east-to-southeast winds ahead of the tropical system.
Coastal flooding will continue this weekend due to southeast winds and ongoing onshore flow. The National Weather Service warns that the highest tides will happen overnight and early morning, which could lead to minor to moderate flooding. Residents should pay attention to the warnings and take precautions as needed.
