Baltimore's weather pattern is setting up for a rollercoaster of conditions. According to the latest from the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC, a warm front will nudge temperatures up before a potent cold front ushers in the week's lowest readings, complete with the potential for mountain snow showers and high winds. It's a stark swing, with today's highs expected to be in the agreeable mid-60s to low-70s before we plummet into the upper 20s to mid-40s by early in the week, as reported by the National Weather Service.
Making an appearance in the early hours, mid-level clouds are increasing, signaling the arrival of showers. And if you're in southern Maryland, don't be surprised by the early morning rumbles of thunder, rare as they may be this time of year. But as we transition under the mostly cloudy skies of the afternoon, another round of showers looms ahead of the advancing cold front. While severe threats are unlikely—thanks to minimal instability in the mix—the setup may bolster a stronger storm if it develops. Following the front, some areas east of U.S. 15 may continue to see residual rains into the evening.
The ensuing cold snap isn't all talk. One to three inches of additional snow could stack up Monday into Monday night in the Alleghenies. This comes on top of the already brisk temperatures and winds strong enough to make you grab a second layer before stepping outside, with wind chills projected to plummet into the teens. In response to the impending freeze, watches have been hoisted for portions of Maryland and Virginia, with widespread temperatures anticipated in higher elevations.
Moving through the week, the marine forecast looks to be just as choppy. Gale Watches are placed as winds off the Potomac and southern Chesapeake Bay could surge Monday night into Tuesday, potentially causing trouble for those on the water. It's not just the coastal nautical community needing to prepare. Fire weather, provoked by potent westerly gusts and climbing temperatures, could dry out the previously dampened vegetation, compelling us to keep a cautious eye on the situation. (National Weather Service)
With the departure of the frontal system, tides and potential coastal flooding concerns recede into the back of our minds. Annapolis and Straits Point, notably touchy locations, may graze action stage during high tides but will likely stay clear of coastal flooding as the week's winds favor a northerly push, typically conducive to keeping water levels at bay. This cold front, while swift, sets the stage for weather-savvy Baltimoreans to brace and adapt to the seasonal shift, affirming once again the adage of Maryland's mercurial weather.
