The Baltimore region braces for a series of weather shifts as a coastal low pressure system begins its ascent up the East Coast, according to the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC. Forecasters anticipate this weather event will increase winds and rain through the coming weekend into next week, with potential for minor coastal flooding in susceptible areas. The National Weather Service reports a secondary area of high pressure building behind the departure of the storm system mid-week.
As showers feel their presence along areas east of I-95 this afternoon, residents should prepare for a drop in temperatures and the wet and windy conditions sweeping in. Winds could gust up to 25-35 mph, with stronger gusts near 40 mph along the Western Shore of the Chesapeake on Sunday. Despite the slight decrease in overall rain totals for Baltimore compared to previous projections, the expected rainfall still hovers around half to three-quarters of an inch, with some areas potentially receiving up to 1.50 inches, according to forecasts.
In the marine context, the National Weather Service has issued Small Craft Advisories, escalating to Gale Warnings for Sunday and possibly into Monday. Mariners should expect treacherous conditions, with the potential of frequent gusts reaching 40-45 knots on Sunday on the water, as indicated by the coastal low that's bringing turbulent weather to the region. These hazards will persist through Monday night, with wind gusts of 20-30 knots possible over Tuesday and Wednesday waters.
According to the National Weather Service, the upcoming storm has the tides in near upheaval, creating a challenging forecast. Annapolis, known for its sensitivity to tidal shifts, is a location to watch for potential minor flooding. What follows is a phenomenon where, post-storm, strong north and northwest winds may generate blowout conditions and rapid ebb in tides, possibly necessitating Low Water Advisories. It remains too soon to tell with certainty, but experts are cautious about these developments.
