Baltimore residents can expect a brisk day ahead with gusts reaching up to 30-40 mph in the mountains, according to the National Weather Service Baltimore MD/Washington DC. A cold front passing through the region early Sunday morning will drag winds from the west, with bands of mid and high level clouds leading to mostly cloudy skies at times. A high-pressure system is set to follow for a brief stint on Monday, before another low-pressure system makes its way into the area, potentially leading to precipitation late Monday into Tuesday.
The subsequent forecast hints at a cool start to the week, with Monday's temperatures hovering near to slightly below normal – think 40s for most. As for the looming question of whether rain or freezing rain will hit the ground, the National Weather Service iterates a slight drying trend among models. Yet, those east of the Alleghenies should watch for a slight chance of freezing rain, posing a risk for early Tuesday travelers. For Baltimore, this means carrying the umbrella might just save you from a sneaky drizzle or two, as many areas may just see rain/sprinkles should precipitation occur at all.
Looking further out toward the Christmas holiday, Baltimore is set to have a green rather than a white Christmas. With temperatures expected to be 10-20 degrees above normal, any hopes of snow are dashed as milder air takes hold over the region. Rain chances peak from Christmas Eve into Christmas Day, particularly over the mountains where 30-50 percent PoPs suggest a wetter holiday. This aligns with the probabilities suggested by the National Weather Service.
Aviators have less to worry about as VFR conditions are expected through the TAF period. But mariners aren't getting off that easily, the National Weather Service warns. Small Craft Advisories kick in from 11 AM due to gusty northwesterly winds, a gentle reminder of Mother Nature’s December whims. These advisories are expected to persist into early Monday morning but should give way to calmer seas as high pressure brings lighter winds by mid-week. In any case, keep those life jackets handy as southerly channeling may be needed by the second half of Monday night.
The National Weather Service provides all the gritty details for the full forecast, including all commands and advisories. To all Baltimoreans out there – bundle up, take care, and perhaps enjoy a milder, albeit potentially damp, Christmas week ahead.
