MD Weather Alerts logoMD Weather AlertsMaryland weather, made clear.

Category: Weather Event Outlook

  • Maryland Weather Update for Friday, July 10, 2026: Humid Conditions With Heavy Storms Possible

    Maryland Weather Update for Friday, July 10, 2026: Humid Conditions With Heavy Storms Possible

    Maryland is dealing with another humid and unsettled summer day, with clouds increasing and thunderstorms expected to develop across portions of the state this afternoon and evening.

    The main concern will be locally heavy rainfall. Any stronger storm may also produce gusty winds, frequent lightning, sharply reduced visibility, and brief flooding in low-lying or poor-drainage areas. Not every community will see a storm, but conditions may change quickly where storms develop.  

    Straight to the Point

    Expect a warm and humid day with highs generally in the 80s across much of Maryland. Scattered showers and thunderstorms become more likely this afternoon and evening, with heavy rainfall and localized damaging wind gusts possible in the strongest storms.

    Keep outdoor plans flexible and monitor radar before traveling later today.

    Conditions Across Maryland

    Western Maryland

    Garrett County will remain somewhat cooler than the rest of the state, with considerable cloud cover and scattered showers or thunderstorms possible.

    Allegany and Washington counties will be warmer and humid, with storm chances increasing through the afternoon. Heavy rain and gusty winds may briefly affect travel where thunderstorms develop.

    North-Central Maryland

    Frederick and Carroll counties can expect warm, humid conditions with increasing cloud cover. Scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms may produce torrential downpours, lightning, and localized ponding on roads.

    Baltimore Metro

    Baltimore City and Baltimore, Howard, Anne Arundel and Harford counties will experience humid conditions with temperatures generally reaching the middle to upper 80s.

    Thunderstorms may develop or move through during the afternoon and evening. Localized flash flooding and strong wind gusts cannot be ruled out where the heaviest storms occur.

    Washington Suburbs

    Montgomery and Prince George’s counties will remain warm and muggy with scattered thunderstorms possible later today.

    Heavy rainfall will be the primary concern, particularly across urban and poor-drainage locations. Drivers should be prepared for sudden reductions in visibility and standing water.

    Southern Maryland

    Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties will remain humid with periods of clouds and sunshine. Scattered thunderstorms may develop during the afternoon and evening, bringing lightning, heavy rain and locally gusty winds.

    Upper Eastern Shore

    Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Talbot counties will see warm and humid conditions with scattered showers and thunderstorms possible.

    Some storms may produce brief torrential rainfall and localized flooding, especially if repeated storms move over the same communities.

    Lower Eastern Shore and Beaches

    Dorchester, Wicomico, Somerset and Worcester counties will remain humid, with highs generally in the 80s inland and somewhat cooler conditions near Ocean City and Assateague.

    Scattered thunderstorms may affect portions of the Lower Eastern Shore later today. Beachgoers and boaters should be prepared to leave the water quickly if thunder is heard.

    Afternoon and Evening Storm Threat

    Storm coverage will not be uniform. One community may receive heavy rain while another nearby remains mostly dry.

    The strongest storms may produce:

    • Torrential rainfall
    • Localized flash flooding
    • Frequent lightning
    • Wind gusts capable of minor tree or power-line damage
    • Sudden reductions in visibility
    • Ponding on roads

    Never drive through a flooded roadway. Water may be deeper or moving faster than it appears.

    Chesapeake Bay and Marine Conditions

    Boaters should closely monitor radar and weather alerts throughout the afternoon and evening. Thunderstorms may produce sudden wind shifts, locally higher waves, dangerous lightning and sharply reduced visibility.

    Move to safe harbor immediately if threatening weather approaches.

    Tonight

    Scattered showers and thunderstorms may continue into the evening before gradually becoming less widespread.

    Conditions will remain humid, with overnight lows generally in the upper 60s and lower 70s. Areas that receive rain may also experience patches of fog or reduced visibility overnight.

    Bottom Line

    Today will not be a complete washout, but scattered thunderstorms may disrupt outdoor plans and travel during the afternoon and evening.

    The greatest concern will be heavy rainfall and localized flooding, although isolated strong wind gusts are also possible. Keep an eye on radar, have weather alerts enabled, and be ready to move indoors when thunder approaches.

    MD Weather Alerts will continue monitoring conditions and any watches or warnings issued across Maryland. ⛈️

  • Maryland Evening Storm Outlook – Thursday, July 9, 2026

    Maryland Evening Storm Outlook – Thursday, July 9, 2026

    As another warm and humid July day comes to an end, Maryland residents should keep an eye on the sky. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread this afternoon and evening as a slow-moving front interacts with very moist air across the region. The National Weather Service indicates that some storms could become strong while also producing torrential downpours capable of localized flash flooding. (⁠National Weather Service)

    Straight to the Point

    • ⛈️ Scattered to numerous thunderstorms develop this afternoon and evening.
    • 💨 A few storms may produce damaging wind gusts.
    • 🌧️ Heavy rainfall could lead to localized flooding, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas.
    • ⚡ Frequent lightning will accompany stronger storms.
    • 🌡️ Warm and humid conditions continue ahead of the storms.

    Timing

    Western Maryland: Storms may begin developing during the mid to late afternoon before moving east.

    Central Maryland (Baltimore Metro, Frederick, Carroll, Howard, Harford, Anne Arundel): The greatest chance for storms will be from approximately 4 PM through 10 PM.

    Eastern Shore and Southern Maryland: Storms are expected to arrive later in the afternoon and evening, with activity gradually diminishing overnight. (⁠National Weather Service)

    Main Hazards

    The primary concern will be pockets of heavy rain that could quickly overwhelm storm drains and create isolated flash flooding. While not every storm will become severe, a few may produce wind gusts capable of downing small tree limbs or causing isolated power outages. Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning will make outdoor activities dangerous whenever storms approach. Hail cannot be ruled out in the strongest cells, though it is expected to remain a secondary threat. (⁠National Weather Service)

    Regional Breakdown

    Western Maryland: Storm coverage will be scattered, but any storm that develops may become briefly strong with heavy rain.

    Baltimore-Washington Corridor: This area has one of the better chances of seeing multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms this evening. Localized flooding will be the primary concern where storms repeatedly track over the same locations.

    Southern Maryland: Storms should become more numerous during the evening, bringing periods of heavy rain and lightning.

    Eastern Shore: Storms may hold off until later in the day before moving through during the evening hours with gusty winds and heavy rainfall possible.

    Stay Weather Aware

    If you hear thunder, move indoors immediately. Never drive through flooded roadways, as water depth can be deceptive. Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings this evening, especially if you’ll be outdoors or traveling after work.

    MD Weather Alerts will continue monitoring radar, official National Weather Service updates, and any watches or warnings that may be issued throughout the evening. If conditions change, we’ll have updates as quickly as possible. 🌩️

  • Maryland Storms Could Bring Repeat Impacts This Evening — July 5, 2026

    Maryland Storms Could Bring Repeat Impacts This Evening — July 5, 2026

    Maryland needs to stay weather aware this evening and tonight as another round of thunderstorms moves through the state.

    After last night’s storms brought heavy rain, outages, tree damage, and dangerous travel conditions in parts of Maryland, this evening’s setup has the potential to create similar problems in some communities. This does not mean every county will see severe weather, and it does not mean every storm will be damaging. However, the atmosphere remains very humid, moisture-loaded, and supportive of storms that can drop heavy rain quickly.

    The biggest concern tonight is not just one storm. The bigger issue is the potential for storms to repeat over the same areas. If that happens, flooding can develop quickly, especially in urban areas, low-lying roads, poor-drainage spots, creeks, streams, and locations that already received heavy rain last night.

    Main Storm Concerns This Evening

    Marylanders should be prepared for:

    • Heavy downpours
    • Flash flooding or poor-drainage flooding
    • Frequent lightning
    • Gusty to locally damaging winds
    • Ponding on roads
    • Low visibility while driving
    • Isolated tree damage or power line issues
    • Delays for outdoor plans
    • Dangerous conditions near water and marinas

    The strongest storms may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, but the flooding threat is also a major concern because of the high moisture in place.

    Timing: When Storms Are Most Likely

    Now through 7 PM

    Storms may begin developing or increasing across parts of western, north-central, and central Maryland. Some communities may still be dry during this window, but the atmosphere will remain unstable enough for storms to build quickly.

    7 PM through 11 PM

    This appears to be the main window for stronger storms and heavier downpours across central, north-central, and northeast Maryland. This includes areas around the I-70 corridor, Baltimore metro, northern Chesapeake Bay region, and parts of the upper Eastern Shore.

    Storms may also expand or move into portions of southern Maryland and the Eastern Shore during this period.

    10 PM through 2 AM

    Storms may continue into the overnight hours. Even if the severe wind threat decreases somewhat after dark, heavy rain, lightning, and flooding problems may continue where storms repeat.

    After 2 AM

    Storms should gradually become more scattered, but lingering showers, wet roads, fog, and flooding issues may continue overnight into early Monday.

    Highest Concern Areas

    The highest concern this evening is across central, north-central, and northeast Maryland, where repeated storms could produce very heavy rainfall in a short amount of time.

    This includes areas such as Frederick, Carroll, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Harford, and Cecil.

    That said, storms are possible across the entire state, and any county can still see lightning, heavy rain, gusty winds, or quick travel problems.

    County-by-County Regional Breakdown

    Western Maryland

    Garrett, Allegany, Washington

    Storms are possible this evening, though the highest flood and severe storm focus appears to be farther east. Western Maryland should still watch for lightning, brief heavy rain, gusty winds, and slick roads. Mountain roads can become difficult quickly if heavy rain develops.

    North-Central Maryland

    Frederick, Carroll, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Harford, Cecil

    This is one of the main regions to watch closely this evening. Storms may become heavy between roughly 7 PM and 11 PM, with additional activity possible into the overnight hours.

    Repeated storms could lead to quick flooding, especially in Baltimore City, the Baltimore suburbs, low-lying roads, creeks, and areas that dealt with flooding or storm damage last night. Harford and Cecil counties should also stay alert for storms moving toward northeast Maryland.

    Central Maryland

    Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Anne Arundel

    Central Maryland has a higher concern for heavy downpours and flooding this evening. Storms may become more numerous from late afternoon into the evening, with the 6 PM to 11 PM window especially important.

    Drivers should watch for ponding on roads, low visibility, and water covering low spots. Urban and suburban areas can flood quickly when rain falls hard in a short period of time.

    Southern Maryland

    Charles, Calvert, St. Mary’s

    Storms may be more scattered at times, but southern Maryland should not ignore the risk. Any storm that develops can produce lightning, heavy rain, gusty winds, and brief dangerous travel conditions.

    Waterfront areas, marinas, and boaters should be especially cautious. Storms can become dangerous quickly over the Chesapeake Bay, tidal Potomac, Patuxent River, and nearby waterways.

    Upper Eastern Shore

    Kent, Queen Anne’s, Talbot, Caroline

    Storms may increase this evening into tonight, especially as activity moves toward the Chesapeake Bay and upper Eastern Shore. Heavy rain, lightning, gusty winds, and areas of low visibility are possible.

    If storms repeat over the same towns or roadways, poor-drainage flooding may develop quickly.

    Lower Eastern Shore

    Dorchester, Wicomico, Somerset, Worcester

    The lower Eastern Shore may see more scattered storm coverage at first, but storms remain possible into tonight. Any stronger storm can produce heavy rain, frequent lightning, gusty winds, and sudden travel issues.

    Beach areas may not see the same timing as central Maryland, but residents and visitors should still keep alerts on and watch the sky.

    Active Weather Concerns

    A Flood Watch is in effect for portions of central and northeast Maryland until 1 AM Monday. Areas included in the watch include Frederick, Carroll, Montgomery, Howard, and Prince George’s counties.

    The main flooding concern is heavy rain falling over a short period of time, especially where storms repeat. Urban areas, small streams, creeks, and poor-drainage roads are the most vulnerable.

    Heat Advisories also continue for parts of Maryland until 8 PM, with heat and humidity still making outdoor conditions uncomfortable and potentially dangerous before storms arrive.

    Why This Could Feel Like a Repeat of Last Night

    Last night showed how fast storms can create problems across Maryland. Even when storms are scattered, the strongest cells can cause localized damage, outages, flooding, and dangerous driving conditions.

    Tonight’s setup is concerning because the atmosphere is still very humid, storms may be slow-moving or repeating, and some areas already have wet ground or leftover issues from last night.

    This is the type of evening where one town may only get rain, while another nearby area sees flooding, lightning, tree damage, or power outages. That is why everyone should stay aware, even if it looks quiet outside at first.

    Safety Reminders for Marylanders

    Before storms arrive:

    • Charge your phone
    • Keep weather alerts turned on
    • Bring outdoor items inside
    • Move vehicles away from weak trees if possible
    • Check on older neighbors, family, and pets
    • Avoid unnecessary travel during the strongest storms
    • Have flashlights ready in case power goes out

    During storms:

    • Stay indoors when thunder is heard
    • Avoid windows during strong winds
    • Do not stand under trees
    • Avoid flooded roads
    • Never drive through water-covered roadways
    • Give emergency crews and utility crews room to work
    • Wait before going outside to inspect damage

    If a road is covered with water, turn around. It does not take much moving water to create a dangerous situation.

    Bottom Line

    Maryland should stay weather aware this evening and tonight.

    Not everyone will see severe weather, but the storms that do develop may produce heavy rain, lightning, gusty winds, and quick flooding. Central, north-central, and northeast Maryland appear to have the highest concern, but every county should pay attention.

    Please do not treat this like a normal summer shower. Last night proved how quickly storms can become dangerous.

    Keep alerts on, avoid flooded roads, and be ready to act if a warning is issued.

    Stay safe tonight, Maryland.

  • Maryland Heat Wave Outlook: July 1–4, 2026

    Maryland Heat Wave Outlook: July 1–4, 2026

    Maryland is heading into a significant heat wave beginning Wednesday, July 1 and continuing through at least Saturday, July 4.

    This will be more than a typical hot summer stretch. Multiple days of heat and humidity will create dangerous conditions across much of the state, especially away from the mountains and immediate Atlantic beaches. Heat index values may reach the 100s for many communities, with some areas possibly feeling close to 105 to 110 degrees during the hottest periods.

    The heat will build in stages. Wednesday is the first major day. Thursday and Friday look like the peak of the heat for many areas. Saturday, Independence Day, may still be very hot, but storm chances may begin increasing as the heat dome starts to weaken.

    The main message for Maryland: take this heat seriously, prepare early, and limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of each day.

    Heat Wave Overview

    A strong ridge of high pressure will build over the region, allowing hot air to settle over Maryland. At the same time, humidity will increase, making temperatures feel even hotter than what the thermometer shows.

    This pattern will likely bring:

    • Multiple days in the 90s
    • Some lower-elevation areas near or above 100 degrees
    • Heat index values over 100 for many counties
    • Limited cooling at night in urban and low-elevation areas
    • Increasing heat stress for outdoor workers, pets, kids, older adults, and anyone without reliable cooling
    • Low rain chances early in the heat wave
    • Increasing thunderstorm chances by Friday and Saturday

    Western Maryland and the beaches will be somewhat cooler than inland central Maryland, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, but every part of Maryland will feel the heat in some way.

    Wednesday, July 1: Heat Wave Begins

    Wednesday is the first major day of dangerous heat across Maryland.

    Morning conditions will be mostly quiet and dry, but temperatures will rise quickly after sunrise. By afternoon, much of the state will be in the 90s. Heat index values may reach 100 to 105 degrees in many lower-elevation and urban areas.

    A few isolated storms may try to develop during the afternoon or evening, especially near the mountains, Blue Ridge, or local boundaries such as the Chesapeake Bay breeze. Most areas will stay dry, but any storm that forms could bring gusty winds, heavy rain, and lightning.

    Wednesday Heat Focus

    The hottest areas Wednesday will likely include the I-95 corridor, Baltimore metro, D.C. suburbs, north-central Maryland, inland Southern Maryland, and inland Eastern Shore communities.

    Garrett County and the immediate Atlantic beaches will be cooler, but still warm and humid.

    Thursday, July 2: Extreme Heat Expands

    Thursday looks like one of the most dangerous days of the heat wave.

    Many inland areas may reach the upper 90s to near or above 100 degrees. Heat index values could reach 105 to 110 degrees in parts of central Maryland, northern Maryland, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore.

    The risk becomes higher because this is not just one hot afternoon. By Thursday, the body is already dealing with the heat from Wednesday, and overnight temperatures may not cool enough for full relief in some areas.

    Rain chances remain low for most of Maryland, meaning there may not be much cloud cover or rain-cooled air to help.

    Thursday Heat Focus

    Thursday may bring dangerous to extreme heat across much of Maryland, especially from Frederick, Carroll, Montgomery, Howard, Baltimore, Harford, Cecil, Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s counties eastward into the Eastern Shore.

    Western Maryland will still be hot, especially Allegany and Washington counties, but Garrett County remains somewhat cooler due to elevation.

    Friday, July 3: Peak Heat Continues, Storm Risk Begins Increasing

    Friday may be another extremely hot day across Maryland.

    Temperatures may again reach the upper 90s to near or above 100 degrees in many inland areas. Heat index values could again reach the 105 to 110 degree range in the hottest spots.

    By Friday afternoon and evening, storm chances may begin increasing as the heat dome starts to weaken slightly and disturbances move closer to the region. This does not guarantee storms everywhere, but any storms that form could become strong because of the extreme heat and humidity already in place.

    Possible storm hazards Friday include:

    • Damaging wind gusts
    • Frequent lightning
    • Heavy downpours
    • Large hail in stronger storms
    • Rapidly changing outdoor conditions

    Friday is a day to watch closely if you have travel, outdoor work, beach plans, evening events, or early holiday weekend activities.

    Saturday, July 4: Still Hot for Independence Day, Storms Possible

    Saturday, July 4, may still be hot and humid across Maryland, even if temperatures begin to ease slightly in some areas.

    Many communities may still reach the 90s, with heat index values over 100 possible. The Eastern Shore, Southern Maryland, central Maryland, and the I-95 corridor may still feel very uncomfortable.

    Thunderstorm chances may be higher Saturday compared to Wednesday and Thursday. This is important for Independence Day plans, fireworks, cookouts, parades, beach trips, and outdoor events.

    Saturday does not look like an all-day washout at this point, but storms could interrupt plans, especially during the afternoon and evening. Any storm that develops in this kind of hot and humid air could be intense.

    The key message for July 4: plan for heat first, but also have a storm backup plan.

    Heat Risk by Maryland Region

    Western Maryland

    Garrett County will be the coolest part of Maryland during this heat wave, but it will still be warmer than normal. Deep Creek Lake, Oakland, Grantsville, and surrounding mountain areas may stay mostly in the 80s, with lower heat index values compared to the rest of the state.

    Allegany and Washington counties will be much hotter, especially in the lower elevations. Cumberland, Frostburg, LaVale, Hagerstown, Williamsport, Boonsboro, and surrounding areas may reach the 90s on multiple days, with heat index values climbing near or above 100.

    Western Maryland may also have some of the earlier isolated storm chances, especially near the mountains.

    North-Central Maryland

    Frederick, Carroll, Montgomery, and Howard counties will see dangerous heat build quickly.

    Frederick, Westminster, Rockville, Germantown, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, Columbia, Ellicott City, and surrounding communities should prepare for multiple days of highs in the mid to upper 90s, with some locations possibly near 100.

    Heat index values may reach 105 or higher at times, especially Thursday and Friday.

    Baltimore Metro and Northern Maryland

    Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Harford, Cecil, and Anne Arundel counties will be in a high-risk heat zone.

    Baltimore City may feel especially hot because urban areas hold heat longer into the evening. Towson, Catonsville, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, Bel Air, Aberdeen, Havre de Grace, Elkton, Glen Burnie, Annapolis, and surrounding areas should expect dangerous heat, especially Thursday and Friday.

    Areas near the Chesapeake Bay may be slightly cooler at times, but humidity will still make it feel very uncomfortable.

    Southern Maryland

    Prince George’s, Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s counties will also see dangerous heat.

    Bowie, College Park, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Prince Frederick, Chesapeake Beach, North Beach, Solomons, Leonardtown, Lexington Park, and surrounding communities should expect multiple days in the 90s, with heat index values possibly reaching 105 or higher.

    Bay and river communities may be slightly cooler, but not cool enough to remove the heat risk.

    Eastern Shore

    The Eastern Shore will deal with significant heat, especially inland.

    Kent, Queen Anne’s, Talbot, Caroline, Dorchester, Wicomico, Somerset, and Worcester counties should prepare for a major heat risk from Wednesday through Saturday, with the most dangerous heat likely Thursday and Friday.

    Chestertown, Centreville, Easton, Denton, Cambridge, Salisbury, Princess Anne, Snow Hill, Pocomoke City, and other inland Shore communities may reach the mid to upper 90s or higher. Heat index values could climb into the 100s, with some areas possibly near 110 during the peak.

    Ocean City, Assateague, and the immediate coast will be cooler thanks to the Atlantic influence, but beachgoers still need to take the heat seriously because sun exposure, humidity, and crowded outdoor conditions can still create heat stress.

    County-by-County Heat Breakdown

    Garrett County

    Garrett County stays cooler than the rest of Maryland because of elevation, but it will still be warm. Highs may mostly stay in the 80s, with the warmest days late week. Deep Creek Lake and Oakland will be more comfortable than most of the state, but outdoor activity should still include water breaks and sun protection.

    Allegany County

    Allegany County will be hot, especially around Cumberland and lower elevations. Heat index values may reach near or above 100 during the hottest afternoons. Higher elevations near Frostburg will be somewhat cooler, but the heat will still be noticeable.

    Washington County

    Washington County will see a major increase in heat, especially Wednesday through Friday. Hagerstown, Williamsport, Boonsboro, and Hancock should prepare for highs in the 90s and heat index values near or over 100. Friday and Saturday may also bring increasing storm chances.

    Frederick County

    Frederick County will be very hot during this heat wave. Frederick, Thurmont, Brunswick, Urbana, and Walkersville may see highs in the upper 90s at times, with heat index values reaching dangerous levels, especially Thursday and Friday.

    Carroll County

    Carroll County will be hot and humid with multiple days in the 90s. Westminster, Eldersburg, Hampstead, and Mount Airy should expect heat index values near or above 105 at times. Outdoor work and youth sports should be adjusted around peak heating.

    Montgomery County

    Montgomery County will be in one of the more concerning heat zones. Rockville, Germantown, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, Bethesda, Olney, and Clarksburg should prepare for dangerous heat index values, especially Thursday and Friday. Heat may linger into the evening in developed areas.

    Howard County

    Howard County will see dangerous heat build quickly. Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Laurel, and surrounding areas may reach the mid to upper 90s, with heat index values possibly above 105 at times. The risk increases for outdoor workers and anyone without reliable cooling.

    Baltimore County

    Baltimore County will be hot and humid throughout the heat wave. Towson, Catonsville, Parkville, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, Dundalk, Essex, and northern county areas should expect dangerous heat index values, especially away from the water.

    Baltimore City

    Baltimore City may be one of the most uncomfortable areas because urban surfaces hold and release heat slowly. Afternoon heat index values may reach dangerous levels, and nighttime relief may be limited. Residents without reliable air conditioning should find cooling options before the hottest stretch.

    Harford County

    Harford County will be very hot, especially inland. Bel Air, Aberdeen, Edgewood, Fallston, Joppatowne, and Havre de Grace should expect several days of high heat. Areas near the Bay may get some slight relief, but heat index values may still reach dangerous levels.

    Cecil County

    Cecil County will see dangerous heat, especially away from the water. Elkton, North East, Perryville, Rising Sun, and Chesapeake City should expect highs in the 90s and heat index values in the 100s. Storm chances may increase late Friday into Saturday.

    Anne Arundel County

    Anne Arundel County will be hot and humid. Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, and surrounding areas should expect dangerous heat index values. The Bay may help slightly along the shoreline, but the heat risk remains high.

    Prince George’s County

    Prince George’s County will face dangerous heat during the peak of the heat wave. Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, Upper Marlboro, and surrounding communities may see heat index values over 105, especially Thursday and Friday.

    Charles County

    Charles County will be very hot and humid. Waldorf, La Plata, Indian Head, Bryans Road, and surrounding areas should plan for highs in the 90s and heat index values in the 100s. Outdoor activity should be limited during the afternoon.

    Calvert County

    Calvert County will be hot, even with some Bay influence. Prince Frederick, Dunkirk, Chesapeake Beach, North Beach, Lusby, and Solomons should expect very warm to hot conditions. Inland areas will feel the worst of the heat, while waterfront areas may be slightly cooler but still humid.

    St. Mary’s County

    St. Mary’s County will be hot and humid through the heat wave. Leonardtown, Lexington Park, California, Charlotte Hall, and surrounding areas should expect highs in the 90s with dangerous heat index values possible. Bay and river areas may be slightly cooler, but humidity remains high.

    Kent County

    Kent County will see significant heat, especially inland. Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, and nearby communities should expect highs in the 90s, with heat index values climbing into the 100s during the peak heat. Waterfront areas may be slightly cooler but still uncomfortable.

    Queen Anne’s County

    Queen Anne’s County will be hot and humid, especially away from the Bay. Centreville, Stevensville, Kent Island, Grasonville, and surrounding areas should prepare for dangerous heat index values Thursday through Saturday. Kent Island may be slightly cooler near the water but still humid.

    Talbot County

    Talbot County will be very hot inland. Easton, St. Michaels, Oxford, Trappe, and surrounding communities should expect highs in the 90s, with the hottest stretch Thursday and Friday. Waterfront towns may be a little cooler, but the heat risk remains.

    Caroline County

    Caroline County will likely be one of the hotter inland Eastern Shore areas. Denton, Greensboro, Ridgely, Federalsburg, and surrounding areas should prepare for highs in the upper 90s to near 100, with heat index values possibly around 105 to 110 during the peak.

    Dorchester County

    Dorchester County will be hot and humid. Cambridge, Hurlock, Secretary, and surrounding areas should expect dangerous heat index values during the peak of the heat wave. Areas near the water may be slightly moderated, but inland locations will feel very hot.

    Wicomico County

    Wicomico County will face significant heat, especially around Salisbury, Fruitland, Delmar, and surrounding areas. Highs may reach the mid to upper 90s during the peak, with heat index values possibly near 105 to 110. Storm chances may begin increasing by Saturday.

    Somerset County

    Somerset County will be hot and humid, especially inland around Princess Anne. Crisfield and waterfront communities may be slightly cooler, but humidity and sun exposure will still create heat stress. Heat index values may become dangerous late week.

    Worcester County

    Worcester County will have a split forecast. Inland areas such as Snow Hill, Berlin, and Pocomoke City may become very hot, with highs in the 90s and heat index values in the 100s. Ocean City and Assateague will stay cooler due to the Atlantic breeze, but beachgoers should still take heat and sun exposure seriously.

    Heat Safety: What Marylanders Should Do

    This heat wave will last multiple days, which makes it more dangerous than a single hot afternoon.

    Marylanders should:

    • Drink water before feeling thirsty
    • Avoid strenuous outdoor work during the afternoon
    • Take breaks in air conditioning or shade
    • Check on older adults, neighbors, and anyone without reliable cooling
    • Never leave children or pets in vehicles
    • Walk pets early in the morning or later in the evening
    • Keep pets indoors during peak heat
    • Watch pavement temperatures for dogs
    • Make sure outdoor animals have shade and water
    • Bring large water containers outside for wildlife, birds, and strays where safe and appropriate
    • Charge devices and make sure weather alerts are enabled
    • Have a backup plan for July 4 outdoor events

    Signs of heat exhaustion can include heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, or feeling faint. Heat stroke is an emergency and can include confusion, loss of consciousness, hot skin, or very high body temperature.

    Outdoor Events, Fireworks & July 4 Plans

    The Fourth of July period will need extra planning this year.

    For cookouts, parades, fireworks, beach trips, camps, youth sports, and outdoor events, the biggest concern is heat during the day and possible storms later in the holiday period.

    Plan for:

    • Extra water
    • Shade tents or indoor breaks
    • Cooling areas
    • Earlier setup times
    • Shorter outdoor exposure
    • Pet-friendly cooling plans
    • Radar and lightning monitoring
    • A place to go indoors if storms develop

    The heat alone may be enough to make outdoor events difficult. If thunderstorms develop Friday or Saturday, they could create additional safety concerns with lightning and strong winds.

    Bottom Line

    Maryland is heading into a dangerous heat wave from Wednesday, July 1 through Saturday, July 4.

    Wednesday begins the heat. Thursday and Friday look like the peak, with heat index values potentially reaching 105 to 110 in parts of the state. Saturday may still be very hot for Independence Day, with increasing storm chances that could affect outdoor events.

    Every Maryland county will feel this heat in some way. The mountains and beaches will be somewhat cooler, but the heat risk remains statewide.

    Prepare now, take breaks, check on others, protect pets, and stay weather-aware through the holiday weekend.