Baltimore, MD – Baltimore residents and drivers are bracing for coastal flooding early Friday morning as tidal waters threaten low-lying neighborhoods, particularly near the Inner Harbor. The National Weather Service has issued warnings about possible water-covered roads, urging caution and preparedness ahead of a weekend with fluctuating weather conditions including potential thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon.
Coastal Flooding Threatens Inner Harbor and Surrounding Areas
According to the National Weather Service, tides surged to one to one-and-a-half feet above normal levels overnight, resulting in the possibility of up to half a foot of water inundating streets near Thames Street and Bowleys Quarters until 8 a.m. Friday. The next significant high tide is forecasted for just before 5:30 a.m. at Fort McHenry, which could exacerbate flooding conditions.
Motorists are strongly advised to avoid flooded areas, including parts of Boston Street near Canton, where water may cover intersections. Authorities emphasize not driving through barricades or water of unknown depth to ensure safety.
Hot Weather Friday Before Weekend Thunderstorms
Friday is expected to bring hot and mostly sunny weather with highs near 91 degrees. However, this calm will give way to increased precipitation on Saturday. Showers are forecasted to begin in the afternoon with possible thunderstorms rolling in after 2 p.m.
These thunderstorms may produce damaging winds late Saturday into the night, raising concerns for outdoor activities including youth sports events and weekend travel on major routes like I-95 and I-695. Residents should take precautions by securing outdoor items and preparing for potential power outages.
Weather Outlook and Safety Recommendations
Sunday will offer some relief with partly sunny skies and cooler temperatures, with highs near 78 degrees. Showers are again expected Sunday night, followed by a warming trend early next week with temperatures rebounding to the mid-80s and continued sunny conditions through midweek.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 91°F.
- Saturday: Showers and possible thunder after 2 p.m., high near 89°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 78°F.
- Monday: Sunny, high near 77°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 85°F.
The National Weather Service has noted that advisories could be extended as elevated tides may persist through the weekend, reinforcing the need for residents, especially those in flood-prone zones, to monitor official weather updates closely.
“Motorists should avoid flooded roadways and embrace caution to prevent accidents, especially during the early morning high tide near the Inner Harbor,” a National Weather Service spokesperson ensured.
Preparing for the Weekend’s Weather Challenges
With the mix of coastal flooding risk and potential thunderstorms, preparations are essential. Residents are encouraged to:
- Stay informed with weather alerts throughout the weekend.
- Avoid driving through flooded streets and observe all road closures.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items to prevent wind-related damage.
- Plan for possible interruptions to outdoor events and weekend travel.
By taking these precautions, Baltimore residents can navigate the weekend with greater safety and resilience against the shifting weather.
What do you think about the upcoming coastal flooding and thunderstorms? Have you experienced similar weather challenges in Baltimore before? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
