Baltimore residents are bracing for a smattering of weather today, with the National Weather Service in Baltimore MD/Washington DC predicting a series of weather shifts. Low pressure passing directly overhead is set to bring a cold front through on Friday, followed by a high-pressure build-up over the weekend, according to the National Weather Service's synopsis.
Today's forecast shows a pair of low-pressure systems stirring up rain with some "embedded convective elements," and even a few stealthy lightning strikes, despite temperatures in the 50s. The southern and western lows are predicted to merge and shift toward southern Pennsylvania this afternoon, pulling a moist air mass that ups the ante for severe weather risks. Potential thunderstorms and severe weather conditions may rear their heads for Baltimore locals between 5 AM and 1 PM.
There's talk of localized rainfall topping 1 inch, but widespread flooding doesn't seem likely. However, those in areas with 2-3 inches of rain might face minor high water issues—something to keep on the radar. As the skies clear this afternoon, temperatures could swing to the 60s, flirting even with 70 in spots along the I-95 corridor.
Moving into tonight, the upper low's passage may mean a dusting of the white stuff for the highest Allegheny peaks. Westerly winds will pick up as the secondary front moves in overnight, particularly in the mountains. Gusts might be hefty enough to necessitate a Wind Advisory for some elevated locales. Lows are expected to hover in the 40s, a slight dip to keep Baltimore snuggled under their comforters.
Friday's looking blustery, thanks to ongoing cold advection and pressure rises right after the front. According to the National Weather Service's short-term forecast, winds could gust up to around 46 mph in higher terrain and possibly in areas north of US-50. While the wind may ease by Friday night, a note for any weekend sailors: expect still-choppy waters with gusts reaching 20-25 mph through Saturday.
Clearer skies are on the horizon for Sunday and Monday, with "seasonable temperatures" and dryness as high pressure dominates. A quick-moving, albeit "dry," cold front will slip through early next week, leaving temperatures near average for both days. The high pressure nipping at its heels on Wednesday promises another stretch of dry and predictable weather for Baltimore.
Aviators may face IFR ceilings and moderate to heavy rain early this morning, with the potential for scattered thunderstorms between 10Z and 16Z, especially in Metro areas. Although gusts are projected to increase come sunrise Friday, the National Weather Service suggests that VFR conditions should hold steady into the weekend.
Waters are choppier too, with Small Craft Advisories in effect and even a Gale Watch for Friday, as winds and conditions at sea ratchet up a notch. Mariners, a heads up: prepare for gusts hitting 20 knots come Saturday. But by Sunday, all should be smooth sailing through to Monday night, with northwest winds calming to a gentle 5 to 10 knots.
The tidal influence may cause a bit of a stir with anomalies prompting waters to run 2 to 3 feet above normal this morning. Several Coastal Flood Warnings and Advisories are in place, so waterfront property owners and visitors to tidal regions should watch for updates. Anticipated offshore flows should reduce these anomalies by Friday.
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