Baltimore rolled out of bed sweating this morning, with muggy pre-dawn temperatures already stuck in the low 80s. Forecasters say it is only going to get more brutal from here: the high is expected to climb near 104°F this afternoon, with heat-index values pushing up to a punishing 113°F. Overnight, most urban neighborhoods will stay in the 70s to lower 80s, so anyone hoping for a cool-down is likely to be disappointed.
Extreme Heat Warning And What To Expect
The National Weather Service has slapped an Extreme Heat Warning on much of the Baltimore–Washington region from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and again Friday, cautioning that the combination of high heat and humidity will make outdoor activity downright hazardous. Light west to southwest breezes will not offer much relief, and the afternoon will feel especially oppressive. Heat-related illnesses become more likely for anyone working or exercising outside. According to NWS Baltimore/Washington, heat index values in built-up urban areas could top 110°F.
Air Quality
The Maryland Department of the Environment has issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for parts of the Baltimore City metro and Annapolis region, meaning air quality may be unhealthy for sensitive groups. People with asthma, heart or lung disease, older adults, and those caring for small children are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exertion and keep inhalers or other prescribed medications close at hand, in line with Maryland Department of the Environment guidance.
Cooling Centers And City Resources
Baltimore City will activate Code Red cooling-center resources for residents who need an air-conditioned place to ride out the worst of the heat. Call 311 for the latest on locations and hours. The Health Department also shares a cooling-center flyer and map that highlight senior centers, community sites, and partner stores that open on Code Red days, so it is worth checking the city list before heading out. For details and a rundown of typical sites, see the Baltimore City Health Department resource.
Weekend Outlook
Looking ahead to the Independence Day weekend, the atmosphere does not plan to behave itself. Thunderstorm chances increase Friday and continue into the holiday, with scattered afternoon and evening storms most likely Friday and Saturday. Any isolated storms that pop up could bring strong, gusty downbursts, so it is smart to keep outdoor plans flexible and allow extra time for travel if storms roll through.
Quick Safety Tips
To stay out of trouble in this kind of heat, drink plenty of fluids, steer clear of heavy exertion between about 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., and check in on older neighbors and relatives. Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a short errand. If you or someone nearby starts showing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, such as dizziness, confusion, a rapid pulse, or loss of consciousness, move to a cooler place right away and seek medical help immediately.
