Nor'easter to bring rainy weather, strong winds, coastal flooding risks to Maryland

The season's first significant nor'easter will lift northward from the Southeast coast this weekend, bringing a surge of rain, wind, and coastal impacts across Maryland. 

The storm's exact track remains uncertain, but confidence is increasing that much of central and eastern Maryland will see a prolonged period of inclement weather from late Saturday through early Monday.

Core of the Storm

Rain will spread north across the state Saturday evening, becoming steady to heavy overnight. 

By Sunday morning, widespread rainfall is expected across central and eastern Maryland, including Baltimore, Annapolis, and the Eastern Shore.

• Heaviest totals: 2–3 inches are likely along and east of I-95, especially from Annapolis to the Lower Eastern Shore.

• Localized flooding: Poor drainage and urban flooding are possible where downpours persist or storm drains become clogged with autumn leaves.

• Western Maryland: Areas west of Frederick and Hagerstown will see lighter amounts (½–¾ inch), but still steady rain at times.
  This nor'easter is not expected to bring widespread flash flooding, but the persistent nature of the rain could lead to standing water on roads and ponding in low-lying areas.

Wind, power concerns across Maryland

As the low intensifies offshore, a tightening pressure gradient between it and high pressure over New England will generate strong northeast winds.

• Sustained winds: 15–25 mph statewide, increasing to 25–35 mph near the Chesapeake Bay.

• Gusts: Up to 40 mph possible along the Bay, coastal plain, and higher terrain of northern Baltimore and Harford counties.

• Power outages: Some scattered outages may occur, especially where trees remain partially leafed out and soils become saturated.

Mariners should prepare for dangerous conditions across the Chesapeake Bay and tidal tributaries, with gale-force gusts possible and wave heights building to 3–6 feet on open waters.

Coastal flooding and tidal concerns

Persistent northeast winds will pile water into the western side of the Chesapeake Bay through the weekend.

• Tidal flooding: Minor to moderate flooding is possible during high tide cycles Sunday into Monday, particularly in Annapolis, Baltimore's Inner Harbor, and Havre de Grace.

• Western Shore areas exposed to northeast fetch may experience multiple tide cycles above flood stage.

• Erosion: Prolonged onshore flow could lead to minor shoreline erosion along the Bay and tidal rivers.

Timing for nor'easter impacts in Maryland

• Saturday Afternoon: Clouds increase; scattered sprinkles possible by late day in southern Maryland.

• Saturday Night: Rain overspreads the region, becoming steady to heavy overnight. Winds increase.

• Sunday: Periods of heavy rain and gusty northeast winds. Coastal flooding possible around morning and evening high tides.

• Monday: Gradual tapering of rain; breezy conditions linger into afternoon.

Weather next week

By Tuesday, the storm system drifts farther offshore, allowing high pressure to build back in. Sunshine returns with highs in the 60s to low 70s, but the Bay may remain choppy and tides elevated into early Tuesday.

Bottom Line for Maryland

• Rainfall: 1–3 inches (locally higher east)

• Wind Gusts: 35–40 mph along the Bay, 25–30 mph inland

• Flooding Risk: Minor to moderate coastal flooding, localized street flooding possible

• Power Issues: Scattered outages from gusty winds and saturated ground

• Timing: Worst impacts Saturday night through Sunday night