A warming trend continues across the Mid-Atlantic ahead of wet weather, a strong cold front and return of winter temperatures heading into this weekend.

Early spring-like weather continues in Maryland 

The gusty breeze continues through late afternoon, before weakening this evening following a weak front pushing through the state.

Behind the front, slightly cooler air will settle in on Thursday. Temperatures are still forecast to warm to above normal levels on Thursday afternoon; peaking in the mid to upper 50s in many spots. It'll trend even warmer on Friday and Saturday as the next front approaches. 

Many neighborhoods will warm into the 60s both Friday and Saturday afternoons. 

Wet weather becomes widespread late Friday, Saturday

The forecast remains mostly dry through Friday morning. However, a couple rain showers are still possible late Thursday, into early Friday... especially in western Maryland. 

The chance of rain increases from southwest, to northeast, Friday evening. 

Rain becomes widespread and steady Friday night. A steady Saturday morning rain gives way to more scattered showers by the afternoon. Rainfall totals could top .5" in many spots. A few communities could record nearly an inch of rain by the time wet weather comes to an end later Saturday. This rain is desperately needed and will help wash away all of the salt still lingering on roadways and sidewalks. 

Winter cold blows into Maryland on Sunday

The second-half of the weekend will feature the return of winter temperatures. We'll peak in the low to mid-40s in many areas of Sunday afternoon. Winds will gust 30 to 40 MPH, under a mix of sun and clouds. It'll feel much colder, thanks to the breeze. Winds could gust up to 50 MPH in higher elevations.

The weather pattern favors more cold and possibly wintry weather as we head deeper into next week.

Enjoy the warmth while we have it,

Cutter