Washington wakes up under clear, cool skies on Wednesday, April 22, with Reagan National checking in around 52°F, which is on the chilly side for late April. Do not stash the umbrella just yet, though. A cold front is set to roll through by mid-morning, bringing a good shot at showers and thunderstorms into the early afternoon, with temperatures still climbing toward a high near 75°F.
Morning Commute: Thunder Risk
Forecasters expect a line of showers and thunderstorms to sweep across the region between about 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, April 22, with the most widespread activity likely in the mid-morning window, right when roads are busiest. The National Weather Service cautions that "small hail, brief downpours and a wind gust over 45 mph seems the greater concerns with any thunderstorms," so drivers should be ready for sudden drops in visibility and quick bursts of strong wind, according to NWS Baltimore/Washington.
Afternoon And Thursday
As the front moves through, storm coverage should taper off during the afternoon, with clouds giving way to partly sunny skies and a developing northwest breeze. Highs are still expected to reach the mid-70s on Wednesday. By Thursday, April 23, it turns warmer again, with mostly sunny skies and highs near 80°F, according to the National Weather Service.
Coastal Tides: Watch Annapolis
Forecasters are also watching the tides, noting the potential for Coastal Flood Advisories around low-lying areas of Annapolis and Havre de Grace near the Wednesday morning high tide on April 22. In past similar set ups, streets near Dock Street in Annapolis have dealt with nuisance flooding. If you are headed to the waterfront, build in extra time and steer clear of any standing water on the road.
Plan Ahead
For Wednesday morning, pack a rain jacket and have an indoor backup for outdoor plans, since thunderstorms could be brief but punchy. Keep tabs on live radar and local traffic reports if you are commuting or running waterfront errands during the mid-morning hours.
