Baltimore woke up sticky and steamy in the low 70s this morning, and it is only getting hotter from here. The city is staring down a serious heat stretch, with highs near 956F today and triple-digit readings likely by tomorrow. Overnight lows are expected to linger in the mid 70s, so there will not be much relief after sunset. If you have outdoor plans, try to move heavy activity to early morning or evening and keep water close by.
Midweek Heat Peak
According to the National Weather Service, Wednesday, July 15, is on track to be the hottest day of the stretch, with a forecast high near 1026F and heat index values up to about 1066F. Forecasters say the heat risk will be greatest in the afternoon hours, and they will be watching conditions closely for any advisory-level impacts in the region.
What To Expect
Today features mostly sunny skies with light southwest winds and a high near 956F. Nights will stay very warm, with Tuesday night only dropping to about 766F before temperatures spike midweek. Thursday, July 16, is expected to hover near the century mark at around 1016F, with somewhat lower odds of daytime storms. Rain and thunderstorm chances pick up into the weekend, and Saturday, July 18, currently carries the best shot at scattered storms trying to cool things down a bit.
Coastal Tides And Commute
Onshore flow combined with the recent tidal cycle has kept water levels in the bay elevated. The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Advisory early Tuesday for low lying areas of Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, and minor splashover at high tide is possible through midweek. If your route takes you along waterfront roads, be ready for pockets of standing water near peak tides and give yourself extra time in case you need to detour.
Cooling Options And Safety
According to the Baltimore City Health Department, the city maintains Code Red cooling resources during the summer. When Code Red is declared, designated cooling centers and some library locations open and residents are urged to call 311 or sign up for BMORE Alerts. Check with 311 or the city website before you head out to confirm locations, hours, and available services.
If you need to be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade, drink water regularly, and avoid heavy exertion from about 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion such as dizziness, nausea, or clammy skin, and for possible heat stroke marked by confusion and very hot, dry skin. Seek immediate medical care if severe symptoms appear, and we will update readers if heat advisories or watches are issued later this week.
