Baltimore residents can expect a frontal weather sandwich today, with a warm front that has already pushed through most of the forecast area, leading to improved visibility. According to the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC, the Dense Fog Advisory has been lifted, except in western Maryland and parts of eastern West Virginia. Temperatures may flirt with the 70s before a cold front blasts across the area. However, bringing the warm temps, true cold front, and moisture discontinuity does not cross the area until 18Z, the service reported.
For those looking to travel on Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, be ready for a shocking return to winter. Winds peaking with frequent gusts to 35 mph are foretelling the frigid conditions. Carrying cold conditions, high pressure will move overhead Saturday, then move offshore Sunday into early next week as the next system approaches from the west, according to the forecast. Friday night will see a notable chill, with temperatures diving into the 20s and teens across the mountains.
Looking ahead to the long term, Saturday promises a dry reprieve under high pressure, although temperatures will still be roughly 10 degrees lower than the November average. Sunday may usher in a light, cold rain spreading from west to east, possibly a few snowflakes in certain areas. After a cold frontal passage, the start of the new week may maintain the trend of below-average temperatures with even more chances of rain showers.
In terms of aviation and marine conditions, Baltimore is anticipating VFR conditions through the weekend. However, significant uncertainty as to the onset of gusty WNW winds this afternoon or tonight still looms for pilots and mariners. Sailing into uncertainty, once the winds kick in, they are expected to blow through Friday with increasing strength. Marine activities will have to navigate Small Craft Advisories and Gale Warnings, which seem to be the forecast's only certainty at this point.
