Baltimore is gearing up for a scorching week ahead as a large ridge of high pressure takes a dominant stance over the eastern US. With highs rocketing into the mid-90s and creeping toward the century mark, residents are feeling the heat in more ways than one. As reported by the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC, "A prolonged period of very hot weather is expected through the middle of the week." The grip of this heat doesn't appear to be loosening anytime soon, with overnight temperatures loitering in the uncomfortably warm 70s and even hitting 80 in the heart of urban hubs like Baltimore and D.C.
The high-pressure system mercilessly turns the dial on daytime temperatures, with possible record-challenging warmth on the horizon. "Based on the daily temperature records in the area, some of these records may be tied or broken," suggests the forecast. Discomfort is compounded by continued southerly winds, which keep dew points in the sticky upper 60s to low 70s. This combination of heat and humidity means a troublesome heat index range of 100 to 105 degrees. Despite the threat of a non-zero chance for storms, the strong ridging aloft largely suppresses any significant convective development, offering little respite from the relentless heat.
Looking ahead to the start of the week, there are no signs of relief. Monday and Tuesday are looking to be what one could only describe as fiery, with the NWS putting an Extreme Heat Watch in place for several areas, including the D.C. and Baltimore metros. Those potentially record-breaking overnight lows are a harbinger of sweltering days to follow. The risk to vulnerable populations is too real with the heat index in triple-digit territory.
Changes in the weather pattern aren't expected until the end of the week, when the possibility of some storms creeps back into the picture. For mariners, light northwest winds mean favorable conditions, but those on land may still feel stuck in a sauna. "Extreme heat continues Wednesday as highs reach the mid 90s to around 100F, with heat indices between 95-105," according to the National Weather Service. This prolonged period of sultry temperatures might take the wind out of the sails for anyone hoping for a more agreeable summertime climate.
Regarding travel, those looking to the sky for a quick getaway can rest easy—VFR conditions are expected through to the end of next week. However, the air quality on terra firma leaves something to be desired with this oppressive heat wave. After a weekend of clear skies, a slight chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms returns by Thursday. While not an all-out solution to the torrid spell, these potential storms might just be enough to break the heat, at least temporarily.
