Maryland experienced an extraordinary weather swing Tuesday as Baltimore shattered a long-standing temperature record. The previous daily high of 80°, last set in 2016, was officially broken when BWI Airport reached an unofficial 85° Tuesday afternoon — an unusually warm surge for early March.
But the warmth won’t last long.
As temperatures fall through the 60s and 50s overnight into early Wednesday morning, areas of fog may develop before 10 a.m., setting the stage for a dramatic midweek weather turnaround.
Severe Storm Risk Returns Wednesday Afternoon
Baltimore could challenge another record high Wednesday afternoon — but this time, the heat may fuel dangerous storms.
Meteorologists have flagged Wednesday as a First Alert Weather Day, warning of scattered severe thunderstorms across Maryland, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours.
What To Expect:
- Storm window: 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Potential for damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph
- Risk of large hail
- Low, but possible, isolated tornado threat
- Highest tornado risk: Western Maryland & West Virginia Panhandle
While a few showers could pop up in the morning — particularly in western Maryland — the greater concern lies later in the day if storms are able to develop. Not every area may see severe weather, but any storm that forms could turn intense quickly.
Communities along and west of I-95 should remain especially alert.
From 85° to Snow? Dramatic Temperature Drop Incoming
Behind the powerful cold front, temperatures are expected to plunge dramatically.
By sunrise Thursday, Maryland could see a temperature drop of 25° to 30° compared to Wednesday afternoon highs.
Thursday afternoon highs will struggle to climb out of the low to mid-40s, accompanied by breezy winds and scattered showers. Some areas, including Baltimore, may even see light snow or sleet mixing with chilly rain. No significant accumulation is expected at this time.
Friday remains dry but cool, with highs in the low to mid-50s. Similar conditions continue into Saturday before slightly warmer air arrives Sunday ahead of yet another strong front.
St. Patrick’s Day Could Bring Another Wintry Twist
Looking ahead to early next week, temperatures are expected to fall sharply once again.
After steady rain and gusty winds on Monday, readings could drop from the mid-50s Monday afternoon into the 20s by Tuesday morning. Once colder air settles in, it may linger through the middle of next week.
There are early indications that light snow could accompany this colder pattern, though impacts currently appear minimal.
Maryland’s Wild Weather Week
This week highlights just how volatile early spring weather can be in Maryland — from record-breaking warmth to severe storm threats and even hints of snow within days.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware, especially Wednesday afternoon and evening, as conditions could change rapidly.
Stay prepared, stay alert, and keep an eye on updated forecasts as Maryland navigates this dramatic weather swing.
