BALTIMORE, Md. – Scattered thunderstorms are expected to hit much of Maryland and the D.C. metro area late Thursday, bringing a chance for locally damaging winds just as evening travel ramps up. Temperatures will climb into the mid-to-upper 80s before storms develop.
According to the National Weather Service in Sterling, conditions will turn unstable as gusty southerly winds feed warm, moist air into the region. Storms are most likely from late afternoon through tonight, with the strongest cells capable of producing 40 to 60 mph wind gusts. The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of central and western Maryland, northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. under a marginal risk for severe weather.
Baltimore could see highs near 88 degrees before storms arrive, while Washington and Fredericksburg are both expected to reach 87. Areas west of the Blue Ridge, including Hagerstown and Winchester, will also see storms but with slightly cooler highs in the low to mid-80s. Motorists should be alert for sudden downpours, ponding on roadways, and strong crosswinds on bridges.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices, and prepare for brief power outages. The weather service warns that additional advisories may be issued if storms intensify.
