Record warmth, few spring showers in Maryland this week
A warming trend has begun and by the middle of the week, temperature records may be broken as a ridge of high pressure expands over the eastern United States.
Temperatures cool through the 70s this evening, with a pleasant breeze. Monday night will be unseasonably mild, with temperatures in the upper 50s and 60s around sunrise. Tuesday will feature much more in the way of sunshine and that will help boost afternoon temperatures into the upper 80s.
The record high for Tuesday at BWI Marshall is 91° set back in 1941 should remain safe. A few showers and storms may sneak into the Baltimore metro from the north on Tuesday evening. Rain will be brief, but could slow the evening commute in a few spots.
Record heat Wednesday, Thursday across Maryland
Record high temperatures are likely Wednesday and Thursday across Maryland.
The record high at BWI Marshall for Wednesday, April 15th is 88°, set back in 1941. The WJZ First Alert Weather Team is forecasting a high of 92°; smashing the previous record. Though, humidity will remain low in the afternoon - we'll take it.
Thursday more record highs may fall as the heat continues. The record high at BWI for Thursday, April 16, is 90° set back in 2012. The First Alert Weather Team is forecasting a high of 91°.
The ongoing moderate drought conditions, combined with breezy wind, hot temperatures and low humidity will lead to an increased risk of brush fires Tuesday through Friday. Outdoor burning is discouraged. Be aware that certain towns and counties may implement burn bans due to the tinder-dry and hot weather conditions.
Summer warmth Friday and Saturday, cooler and wetter Sunday
Summer-like warmth continues into the weekend. Expect quite a bit of sunshine both days, with highs in the middle to upper 80s.
A few showers and storms could bubble up on Friday. Overall, the chance of rain remains low through the first-half of the weekend. A strong cold front will arrive on Sunday, with a greater chance of showers and thunderstorms. Much cooler weather returns behind the front.
Timing of the front will have an impact on how warm Sunday turns out. Right now, the front should cross early enough in the day to keep high temperatures in the 70s. If the front should cross earlier, the day will be even cooler. If the front is slightly delayed, we could see another day in the 80s.
Stay tuned for updates to this forecast!