Baltimore, MD – Sweltering summer heat and rising humidity will grip the Mid-Atlantic through early next week, with daily thunderstorms—some severe—threatening outdoor plans and travel from Friday through Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, a heat dome building across the region will send temperatures soaring into the upper 90s by Friday, with oppressive humidity driving heat index values past 100°F in cities like D.C., Baltimore, and Fredericksburg. Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected each afternoon and evening from Friday through Monday, bringing potential for damaging winds, lightning, and localized flooding.
Fredericksburg, La Plata, and Harrisonburg could see storm chances as high as 40% by Saturday. Shenandoah National Park visitors should prepare for pop-up storms and slippery trails, especially late in the day. In Cumberland and Martinsburg, muggy air and persistent heat will dominate, with only slight relief expected by Tuesday.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor activities during peak heat, hydrate frequently, and remain alert to fast-developing storm cells. Charge mobile devices and have weather alerts enabled as storm timing may shift rapidly.
Storm chances continue into Tuesday, with unsettled weather possibly lingering into midweek.
