Baltimore, MD/Washington, DC — A significant fire weather and high-wind event is unfolding across the Mid-Atlantic today as a dry air mass, strong northwest winds, and ongoing drought conditions come together to create a high-impact weather day. Both a Red Flag Warning and a Wind Advisory are in effect across much of Maryland, northern Virginia, and the eastern panhandle of West Virginia.
The most immediate concern is the gusty winds, which are expected to peak between 45 and 55 mph through the afternoon. These wind speeds are strong enough to cause scattered instances of damage—such as fallen tree limbs, downed small branches, unsecured objects being blown around, and sporadic power line issues. Travel in high-profile vehicles may also be challenging, especially on elevated roadways and west-to-east corridors where crosswinds will be most intense.
Just as notable is the very low relative humidity, which will fall sharply behind the cold front that moved through earlier this morning. The combination of dry vegetation, drought conditions, and powerful winds means that any fire that starts could spread extremely rapidly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged today. Even small ignition sources—discarded cigarettes, sparks from equipment, or a grill’s stray ember—could ignite brush or grass.
Skies will stay mostly sunny despite the wind, and temperatures will remain seasonable, though the air will feel crisp due to the strong flow of dry air. Winds will gradually decrease after sunset, but elevated fire danger will linger into the evening.
Residents across Baltimore, Washington, and surrounding communities should secure outdoor items, avoid any outdoor burning, and report smoke or fire immediately. With the combination of 55 mph gusts and red-flag–level dryness, conditions are favorable for fast-moving fire spread and localized wind impacts through the entire day.
