As Baltimore residents bask in the warmth of the summer sun, the days ahead promise to bring more heat and, yes, some humidity too. The National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC reports that high pressure maintaining its stronghold near the area will allow temperatures to continue their ascent through Tuesday. There's some talk of a pop-up shower or thunderstorm in the mix today, generally from southern MD across the central VA piedmont into the central Shenandoah Valley, while onshore flow may cause low clouds and the possibility of fog by tonight, with lows hitting the 60s to lower 70s. According to the forecast, this marks a noticeable upturn in humidity.
Looking forward to Tuesday and Wednesday, the heat doesn't let up – if anything, it's packing more of a punch. The National Weather Service cautions that with highs possibly breaching the 90-degree mark, and dew points hovering around 70, heat index values could make it feel like a sweltering 95-100 degrees. The proverbial mercury is expected to climb higher on Wednesday, which might emerge as the hottest day of the week. Lower 90s with heat index values around or a little over 100 are anticipated, though they hedge that bet slightly, nodding to potential showers and thunderstorms that could dial down the heat a notch.
By the time Thursday rolls around, we're ensconced in a familiar summer pattern – think: heat, humidity, and thunderstorms playing a daily game of chance. As the weekend approaches, there's some relief in sight; a cold front is expected to stall and eventually dissipate nearby, according to the National Weather Service. This could bring about some much-needed reprieve for stormy weather, especially on Thursday and Friday, when daily highs will likely still push into the mid-80s to low-90s, but with more clouds overhead providing occasional shade.
For those navigating Baltimore's waters, conditions are fairly friendly with light south to southeast winds through Tuesday, turning southwest by Wednesday. Mariners, be aware, however, that there's "a risk of daily afternoon/evening showers and thunderstorms Thu/Fri," possibly leading to rougher seas, even as the initial forecasts suggest sub-Small Craft Advisory level winds.
Tides are also on the radar, with the National Weather Service alerting to the potential for near-minor tidal flooding, attributed, in part, to the recent full moon and lingering onshore flow. Particularly noteworthy is the risk for high astronomical tides at spots like Annapolis, suggesting waterfront visitors and residents alike should keep an eye out for encroaching tides.
For the most part, there's no need for umbrellas yet, but Baltimoreans shouldn't get too comfortable. The skies are clear now, but as the week wears on, they might surprise us with a clap of thunder or a sudden downpour. Stay updated on weather conditions and enjoy these summer days while they're still dry.
