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Maryland Heat Wave: Triple Digits Grip State
3 Jul
Summary
- Baltimore hit 100 degrees, expecting more triple-digit days.
- Extreme heat warning issued for heat index up to 113 degrees.
- Severe thunderstorms possible Friday through Monday.
The eastern United States, including Maryland, is currently under the grip of an extreme heat wave. Baltimore recorded its first 100-degree day on Thursday, and two more days of such extreme temperatures are anticipated for Friday and Saturday. An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for the entire WJZ-TV viewing area, with heat index values expected to reach between 110° and 113°.
Air quality is also a concern, with an Air Quality Alert in effect Friday due to high heat and humidity. Additional alerts are possible over the weekend due to ground-level ozone, Saharan dust, and potential fireworks emissions. The intense heat and humidity are expected to persist, with very warm overnight temperatures making it difficult for relief.
Beyond the dangerous heat, the holiday weekend also brings the threat of severe weather. Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible Friday afternoon and evening, with numerous strong-to-severe thunderstorms becoming likely on Saturday. Sunday and Monday have also been upgraded to First Alert Weather Days due to the increasing potential for severe thunderstorms, which could cause travel disruptions and localized wind damage.
The severe heat is expected to ease after the July 4th holiday, with temperatures dropping out of the triple digits. However, seasonably hot and muggy conditions with highs in the 90s will continue. The chance of storms increases slightly on Friday, with the peak risk of widespread and potentially severe thunderstorms occurring Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. These storms may impact holiday plans, with the greatest risk on Saturday, July 4th, between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Damaging winds, intense lightning, and heavy downpours are the primary threats from these developing storms.
