Severe Storm Risk Expected Across Maryland and Mid-Atlantic Tonight
Forecasters warn of high winds, large hail and a low tornado risk as a storm system moves into central Maryland after sunset, with cooler, less humid air expected early next week.
A warm front will keep much of Maryland dry during the day on Sunday, but meteorologists expect a cold front to arrive after sunset, bringing a line of storms to the central part of the state. The National Weather Service has highlighted a high wind risk, with gusts of 60 to 80 mph possible in about 30% of the storms affecting the Washington, Baltimore and New York corridors. Large hail over one inch in diameter could occur in roughly 5% of severe storms, while the probability of a tornado remains low at about 2%.
Forecasters are monitoring wind patterns around the Chesapeake Bay, noting that a southeast wind shift can enhance storm intensity between the mountains and metropolitan areas. If conditions become favorable, a severe thunderstorm watch may be issued, followed by warnings as storms develop.
Temperatures are expected to remain in the high 80s to low 90s today, providing ample heat to fuel storm development. A cooler, less humid air mass is forecast to arrive on Monday, bringing highs in the 70s to low 80s. The next period of elevated storm risk is projected for Wednesday and Thursday later in the week.
