"ENHANCED SEVERE WEATHER RISK"
Once again another day with the threat of severe weather. Saturday's setup is a bit more complicated compared to what we had just a few days ago. A warm frontal boundary will straddle the area combined with an area of low pressure back to our west. The front will be one of many ingredients to get storms going during the afternoon and evening hours.
Since the front will be north of the area our temperatures will warm fast into the upper 80s and low 90s. This heat will combine with moisture from some early morning showers to set the table for the late day main storm event.
For that reason the Storm Prediction Center has placed much of the area under an "Enhanced Risk", which simply means that we could have many storms with "All Hazards" at severe limits. On a scale of 1 to 5 we are running about a 3 for severe weather activity. This will be widespread event and one not to take lightly as we enter severe weather season here in Maryland.
BEST LOCATION FOR ISSUES:
According to the latest model guidance the best bet for severe weather exists along the PA/MD state line. In particularly Harford, Cecil, Kent, northern Baltimore, and northern Carroll counties have the greatest risk of seeing damaging gusty winds, hail, and even a possibility of a tornado.
Further south of the city down toward Anne Arundel, Howard, southern Baltimore, and Queen Anne's counties we are likely to see gusty winds and hail. This area is where the line of storms looks to arrive after sunset which could limit the severe threat.
TIMING:
The line of storms looks to arrive by late afternoon into the early evening. The best window to plan around would be 5-9pm for severe. Gusty winds and hail are the biggest threats overall but a tornado cannot be ruled out.
The time is now to remember your weather action plan. Know your safe spot to go to and remember when a warning is issued to take action immediate. Those of you living in Havre De Grace, Cecilton, Rising Sun, Bel Air, Elkton, Westminster, Cockeysville, Manchester, Parkton, & Jarrettsville please remain on extra alert during the late afternoon and evening hours for severe weather that will pack a punch Saturday.
Stay weather aware and don't forget to download our free WMAR 2 News mobile app available at the Apple/GooglePlay store. More updates Thursday as conditions unfold.
