Baltimore, Maryland — Maryland residents are facing another day of dangerous summer weather after record-breaking temperatures scorched the region and forecasters warned that a heightened threat of severe thunderstorms could develop Friday afternoon and evening.
The latest weather concerns come after Baltimore/Washington International Airport recorded a high temperature of 97 degrees, surpassing the previous daily record of 96 degrees set in 2016. While Thursday evening storms weakened and moved out of the area, weather experts say the combination of extreme heat, high humidity, and approaching storm systems could create hazardous conditions heading into the weekend.
Record Heat Grips Baltimore Region
The Baltimore metropolitan area experienced intense heat Thursday, with temperatures climbing well into the 90s under humid conditions.
Although overnight conditions are expected to remain dry, forecasters say residents will wake up to another warm and muggy morning on Friday. Temperatures are expected to quickly rise throughout the day, pushing many neighborhoods into the mid-90s by the afternoon.
Some locations northwest of Baltimore could see temperatures approach the upper 90s, adding to concerns about heat-related illnesses.
With humidity levels remaining elevated, the heat index—or what the temperature actually feels like—could range between 100 and 105 degrees across parts of the state.
Heat Advisory Issued for Friday
Because of the dangerous combination of heat and humidity, a Heat Advisory has been issued for much of the Baltimore region beginning at noon Friday.
Officials are encouraging residents to take precautions, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Health experts recommend staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activities, checking on vulnerable family members, and ensuring pets have access to shade and fresh water.
The prolonged heat can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
Severe Storm Threat Increases Friday Evening
While the heat itself presents a significant concern, meteorologists say the greatest weather threat on Friday may come later in the day.
Forecasters expect thunderstorms to develop during the late afternoon and evening hours, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts, large hail, and intense lightning.
Weather officials are urging residents to closely monitor forecasts and ensure they have multiple ways to receive emergency weather alerts.
The exact timing and intensity of the storms may vary across the region, but conditions appear favorable for severe weather development.
Anyone with outdoor plans Friday evening should remain weather-aware and be prepared to seek shelter quickly if warnings are issued.
Weekend Forecast Brings Some Relief
After Friday’s heat and storm chances, conditions are expected to improve somewhat on Saturday.
Humidity levels are forecast to drop, making temperatures feel noticeably more comfortable despite highs remaining in the upper 80s. Forecasters currently expect plenty of sunshine and dry weather throughout much of the day.
The favorable conditions are welcome news for attendees planning to participate in Baltimore’s Pride Parade and Festival, which is expected to benefit from one of the best weather days of the weekend.
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Saturday is currently projected to be the driest day in the forecast period.
Another Round of Storms Possible Sunday
The break from severe weather may be short-lived.
Meteorologists are already monitoring the potential for another round of thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon and evening. Early indications suggest some of these storms could become severe, although details regarding timing and impacts remain uncertain.
Forecasters say additional updates will be provided as confidence in the forecast increases over the next several days.
For now, Maryland residents are being encouraged to prepare for both dangerous heat and rapidly changing weather conditions as the region moves into the weekend.
Are you experiencing the extreme heat in Maryland, or have severe storms impacted your area recently? Share your weather conditions and safety tips in the comments below.
