Baltimore wakes up on the cold side Friday, March 13, 2026, with morning temperatures in the mid-30s, but the day will trend milder, topping out near 52°F. The catch is the wind. South-southwest breezes will steadily crank up from late morning into the evening, turning what starts as a calm, chilly day into a noticeably gusty one. Loose patio furniture, lightweight decorations, and anything not tied down could start shimmying around, and windows may rattle as the Inner Harbor gets increasingly choppy.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Late this morning through the evening, south winds of 2 to 20 mph are expected, with gusts commonly pushing into the 30s and some spots seeing gusts up to about 36 mph. According to NWS Baltimore/Washington, Wind Advisories and High Wind Warnings are posted for parts of the broader forecast area, generally beginning around 11 AM and continuing into Friday night or early Saturday. The strongest mixing and punchiest gusts are likely during peak afternoon heating, with winds gradually easing overnight into Saturday morning.
Boaters And The Harbor
A Small Craft Advisory is in effect from 10 AM Friday through about 4 AM Saturday, which means recreational boaters are better off postponing nonessential trips and double-checking that lines and loose gear are secured at marinas. Short, choppy waves and gusty conditions are likely on the Chesapeake and in the Inner Harbor, and winds can turn quickly near more exposed stretches of shoreline. On land, drivers of high-profile vehicles and cyclists should take it slow and steady on bridges and exposed ramps during the afternoon peak in gusts.
Next Week Storm Risk
Looking ahead, a stronger cold front is forecast to move in on Monday, March 16, bringing widespread showers and a high chance of thunderstorms. Forecasters flag the potential for strong or even severe storms along the front, with damaging gusts possible. Residents should plan to monitor forecasts Sunday night and have a quick-shelter plan lined up for Monday in case warnings are issued. Temperatures will run milder ahead of the front, with highs in the mid-60s on Monday before a colder push settles in behind it.
How To Prepare
For Friday, bring in or secure patio furniture, trash cans, and any other loose items that could turn into projectiles, and avoid small-boat outings while the marine advisory is active. Build in a little extra travel time this afternoon, use caution on bridges and overpasses, and keep weather alerts switched on in your phone settings. If you encounter downed power lines or other hazards, contact Baltimore City or your utility provider right away rather than trying to handle them yourself.
