Baltimore, Maryland – Gusty winds sweep across central Maryland this morning, rattling tree branches and making for a challenging start to the day in Baltimore and surrounding communities. Damp roads reflect headlights during the early commute, and forecasters warn that conditions will deteriorate as stronger winds arrive this afternoon and evening.
Wind Advisory Covers Baltimore and I-95 Corridor
The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory from noon until 10 p.m. for much of central Maryland, including Baltimore, nearby suburbs, and the I-95 corridor, extending toward Washington, D.C. West winds are expected to increase to 20–25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph in some locations.
The strongest gusts are likely during the late afternoon and evening hours, especially on bridges, hilltops, and other exposed roadways. These conditions raise the risk of downed tree limbs, scattered power outages, and difficult driving for commuters heading home later today.
Rainy Start Followed by Powerful Gusts
Scattered showers move through the region during the morning hours, leaving roads slick just ahead of the strongest winds. While rainfall totals remain light, the combination of wet pavement and sudden gusts could make braking and lane control more difficult.
Motorists traveling on I-95, I-83, I-695, and the Baltimore–Washington Parkway should remain alert for changing conditions. Crosswinds can push vehicles unexpectedly, particularly on elevated stretches of highway and open interchanges.
High-profile vehicles, including delivery trucks, buses, RVs, and vans carrying holiday cargo, face a higher risk of instability. Transportation officials advise reducing speed, maintaining extra following distance, and using both hands on the wheel during gusts.
Safety Concerns Beyond the Roads
Strong winds do not only impact drivers. Residents are urged to secure loose holiday decorations, trash cans, patio furniture, and seasonal displays before winds peak. Unsecured objects can become airborne and cause property damage or injuries.
Pedestrians should also use caution, especially near older trees or construction zones where falling debris is more likely. Power companies remain on standby as gusty winds increase the chance of isolated outages during the evening hours.
Cold Air Arrives Overnight, Black Ice Risk Develops
As winds gradually diminish later tonight, colder air moves in behind the departing system. Temperatures are expected to fall sharply, reaching the upper 20s by early Saturday morning.
Any lingering moisture from today’s rain could refreeze overnight, leading to patchy black ice on untreated roads, ramps, sidewalks, and parking lots. Early-morning drivers and pedestrians should remain cautious, even where pavement appears dry.
Weekend Forecast Brings Relief
Saturday offers a noticeable improvement in weather conditions. Sunshine returns, winds remain light, and afternoon highs climb into the low 40s. While the air stays crisp, travel conditions are expected to be much safer across the region.
Sunday continues the calmer trend with mostly sunny skies and slightly milder temperatures. Highs near 49°F provide a brief break from winter chill, though cold nighttime temperatures keep the seasonal feel firmly in place.
Christmas Travel Outlook Raises Snow Questions
Looking ahead to Christmas week, meteorologists are monitoring a developing winter pattern that could affect travel across Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic. While significant snowfall is not guaranteed, forecast models suggest a possible rain-to-snow transition early next week, depending on how quickly colder air arrives.
Even light snow or mixed precipitation could slow travel during a busy holiday period, especially during morning or evening hours. Forecast confidence remains moderate, and residents planning long-distance trips are encouraged to check updates frequently as the system becomes clearer.
Five-Day Maryland Weather Outlook
Saturday: Sunny, high 43°F
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 49°F
Monday: Mostly sunny, high 39°F
Tuesday: Chance of rain, high 45°F
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 49°F
What to Expect Next
Today’s primary concern remains strong winds, with travel disruptions possible during peak commuting hours. While the weekend brings calmer conditions, the combination of overnight freezing temperatures and potential holiday-week precipitation means Marylanders should remain weather-aware.
Stay informed through official forecasts and local advisories as conditions evolve, especially if you plan to travel in the days leading up to Christmas.
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