Baltimore and the surrounding areas are bracing for a weather rollercoaster as Hurricane Erin influences the local climate, even though it is steering clear of a direct hit. The National Weather Service in Baltimore has outlined a forecast that sees high pressure to the north pushing in cool, moist air this morning, followed by a cold front that will usher Erin further offshore. Local meteorologists are monitoring the impact, anticipating a return to summertime weather and an uptick in northeasterly winds as the hurricane continues its trek.
Morning commuters in Baltimore contended with persistent low cloud cover, and some areas faced drizzle, which the National Weather Service believes could be enough to squeak out a hundredth or two of precipitation. The region was locked in a cold air damming pattern, its grip slowly weakening throughout Wednesday. Residents can expect warmer weather by the afternoon, as the oppressive, stratus clouds give way to a warm front pushing northward. Despite the subdued start, temperatures are expected to reach the low to mid-80s, a small reprieve before another front moves in.
The looming presence of Hurricane Erin offshore is expected to initiate northerly winds with gusts hitting 20 to 30 mph, and potentially up to 35 mph over southern Maryland, according to the NWS. As a result, the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC reports that "the net northerly flow will aid in another cool down with high temperatures in the mid 70s to low 80s." Those living closer to the Chesapeake Bay should brace for stronger gusts on Thursday, the NWS warns.
Despite the stormy interlude, the forecast for Friday suggests drier conditions and more sunshine as Erin moves away from the coast. NWS predicts Friday's highs will ush up into the upper 70s to low 80s, and anticipates a cool down at night. But the weather won't settle just yet, with a new system maneuvering closer by the weekend, potentially triggering more thunderstorms, especially west of the Blue Ridge.
On the maritime front, boaters should remain cautious. The NWS has indicated an imminent need for Small Craft Advisories, with the possibility of near-gale force gusts. Waterway users should be aware that scattered showers and thunderstorms each afternoon to evening will pose a threat to mariners from gusty winds and lightning strikes, as noted by the National Weather Service report. Coastal flooding has also been a concern with high tides triggered by the onshore flow associated with Hurricane Erin, prompting advisory notices along certain coastlines in Maryland.
