As Baltimore braces for a muggy weekend, forecasters at the National Weather Service are expecting showers and possible thunderstorms to keep the heat at bay. Weak surface high pressure builds to the southwest through the weekend, they say, with the possibility of some strong to severe storms throwing down gusty winds. A report released early today provided a comprehensive overview of the weather situation.
Saturday's heat, with indices peaking in the upper 90s, accompanies isolated showers and thunderstorms — a result of the hot and humid airmass that lies overhead. Some storms may become strong to severe, with the primary hazard being damaging wind gusts, the weather service states, noting the Marginal Risk areas along and west of the Blue Ridge. If one thing's certain, it's that the soggy conditions make for a quintessential East Coast summer day.
As temperatures linger in the 80s, heading into Sunday and Monday, we see the odds for inclement weather escalating. Forecasters are keeping a watchful eye on a cold front from the west that could make these thunderstorms more widespread. Within strong to severe thunderstorms, wind will be the primary hazard due to the threat of downbursts, the National Weather Service report warns. The potential for scattered flash flooding also enters the scene on Sunday afternoon.
Looking ahead, mid-week brings its own set of challenges. From Tuesday to Friday, the NWS anticipates the typical summer pattern of heat, humidity, and daily chances for showers and thunderstorms. While each day will feature chances for afternoon showers and thunderstorms, coverage is expected to be highest on Friday, the weather service cautions. Those planning outdoor activities should stay tuned to the latest updates and prepare for sudden weather shifts.
Marine conditions, for now, seem to escape the worst of it with light winds expected through the weekend across the waters, though mariners should stay alert for late Monday when storm chances rise. Meanwhile, tidewise, southerly winds are cranking up the water levels, nudging tidal locations into Action stage and causing minor flooding concerns at sensitive sites like Annapolis. With no immediate advisories declared, the folks in DC, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia can yet breathe a sigh of relief, even if they must do so amidst the moist embrace of an East Coast summer squall.
