Baltimore residents can anticipate a brief respite from the typically muggy summer weather this weekend, as cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels roll in, though not for long. The National Weather Service in Baltimore MD/Washington DC has indicated the pleasant conditions will be short-lived, with a serious heatwave on the horizon. "Drier and less humid through Saturday as high pressure builds into the region," reported the NWS in their latest update.
The cold front that swept through this morning brought gusty winds and a significant drop in dew points—measures of atmospheric moisture—by 10 to 15 degrees. According to the forecast, temperatures today will hover comfortably in the 80s. However, by Sunday, the city is expected to begin to feel the brunt of a prolonged period of excessive heat, as a strong upper ridge currently over the middle of the country makes its oppressive trek eastward. This ridge of high pressure is likely "to slide eastward in time before settling over the eastern third of the U.S. by the end of the weekend," the National Weather Service reports.
As the high pressure shifts offshore, Baltimorians should prepare for a significant uptick in temperatures. Area-wide temperatures on Saturday begin in the upper 80s to low 90s, the NWS forecasts, with a sharp increase expected by Sunday. The forecast indicates that oncoming heat indices may reach a stifling 100 to 105 degree range across much of the area, prompting advisories. Those who are particularly vulnerable are advised to find ways to stay cool, seek hydration, and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat.
Looking ahead to next week, the NWS warns of a persistent heatwave, with temperatures potentially reaching the mid-90s to near 100 degrees and dewpoints climbing into the lower 70s. This mix of high temperatures and humidity is expected to push heat index values well above 100 degrees. Current models offer little hope for overnight relief, with lows projected to stay in the 70s. Later in the week, there may be a slight weakening of the upper-level ridge, possibly signaling an eventual, albeit slight, cooldown.
In aviation and marine news, the region's airports are set to continue with Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions through the weekend, with light northwesterly winds anticipated for both Monday and Tuesday. Marine areas had Small Craft Advisories in place earlier due to the front's gusty westerlies. Still, conditions are expected to calm down with winds staying below advisory levels after the passage of the front. High pressure moving into the area pushes offshore early Saturday, yielding a return to southerly winds this weekend, according to the NWS.
