Baltimore, Maryland – Residents across Maryland, northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metro should prepare for multiple rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms today that could quickly turn dangerous during the afternoon and evening. Damaging wind gusts are expected to be the primary hazard, but large hail and an isolated tornado are also possible as storms move across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington, several rounds of thunderstorms are expected today as an active weather pattern crosses the Mid-Atlantic. High temperatures will range from the lower 70s in the mountains to the upper 80s across lower elevations before storms develop. The greatest threat includes damaging straight-line winds, hail and the potential for an isolated tornado.
Communities including Baltimore, Washington, Frederick, Hagerstown, Annapolis, Rockville and surrounding areas should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions that may affect the afternoon and evening commute. Heavy downpours could reduce visibility, create ponding on roads and produce localized flooding in poor-drainage locations.
Showers and thunderstorms may linger into Wednesday, especially east of the Blue Ridge Mountains, before a drier and less humid air mass moves into the region on Thursday. Highs will remain near 70 to 88 degrees Wednesday before comfortable conditions return later in the week.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, charge electronic devices and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings throughout the day, including Wireless Emergency Alerts and NOAA Weather Radio. Anyone with outdoor plans should be ready to seek sturdy shelter immediately if severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued. Additional watches and warnings may be posted as storms organize this afternoon.
