Baltimore residents can expect an eventful weather pattern over the next few days as a low-pressure system and a cold front compete to shape the local climate. According to the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC, conditions are set to become increasingly unsettled, starting on Thursday and pushing through to the middle of next week.
Thursday's weather is somewhat influenced by a developing area of low pressure along the southeast coast, creating conditions ripe for isolated showers and possibly a few thunderstorms, particularly west of the Blue Ridge. The current forecast expects "a 20 to 30 percent of showers/storms" in those areas, indicating a mix of sun, clouds, and occasional precipitation. Temperatures in central VA/southern MD are likely to hover in the upper 70s to mid 80s, with potentially higher readings further north and west if the sun holds out.
As the week progresses, Friday sees Baltimore caught between two systems—a slow-moving cold front and an extratropical low along the coast—that could lead to thunderstorms in the afternoon, especially across the Potomac Highlands into the Shenandoah Valley. The uncertain track of the coastal low could limit storm coverage in the east, though storms that do develop might be slow-moving, raising the possibility of heavy rain as they drift eastward.
Over the weekend, "Increased instability ahead of an approaching cold front will fuel showers and thunderstorms across the region Saturday into Saturday evening," the National Weather Service reports. The strongest of these storms might pack gusty winds and hail. Moving into Sunday and Monday, a temporary high-pressure build could bring a brief respite, though the odd shower or storm cannot be completely ruled out.
Aviation-wise, the chances for sub-VFR conditions and thunderstorm activity loom over the region, especially to the west. Pilots may encounter some turbulence and visibility issues over the weekend as storms gather strength. Meanwhile, mariners in the Chesapeake Bay area should brace for potential marginal southerly channeling and some thunderstorm threats Friday and Saturday, although no advisories have been issued as of now.
