Baltimore residents can expect a bit of everything from Mother Nature in the next couple of days, starting with widespread rain that should last through the early afternoon today. According to the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC, the city faces a broad area of low pressure that promises precipitation. Rainfall estimates are between a quarter to half an inch, possibly higher in some places. For those looking to escape the wet weather, the silver lining comes later in the form of drier air and clear skies by evening.
The shift in weather doesn't end with the rain, as a reinforcing cold front is set to bring mountain snow in several bursts through Friday night. For the elevated terrains in the Alleghenies, snow totals could pile up to 2-4 inches, while those at around 2500 feet may see 1-2 inches. Despite these projections, the National Weather Service has opted not to issue a Winter Weather Advisory due to snow rates and moisture content uncertainties. Elsewhere in the city, highs are anticipated to reach the 50s east of I-81 during the afternoon and drop to the 20s and mid-30s by tonight.
Gusty winds will also be a part of Baltimore's weather mix, especially from mid-afternoon to early evening, when gusts could reach 30-35 mph. This will likely have a noticeable impact on the urban landscape, hustling pedestrians and scattering loose autumn leaves. For those venturing into the mountains Friday to Saturday night, prepare for feels-like temperatures that could dip below zero due to continued gusty conditions.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service cautions that cold and dry conditions should persist into Saturday, with west winds ensuring the mercury does not find much relief from its descent. In terms of tides and potential coastal flooding, uncertainty remains. However, anomalies are expected to rise slowly before dropping significantly as offshore flows take over, possibly leading to "low water issues Friday into the weekend."
For aviators and mariners alike, it's a time for caution. "Occasional wind gusts to around gale force, of 30-35 knots, are likely for several hours from approximately 4PM to 10PM," the National Weather Service reported, indicating a need for steadfast attention to the unfolding conditions. For mariners, rough waters are expected to ease somewhat by Saturday night, while pilots are advised to expect VFR conditions amid westerly winds through the early week.
