After a night of record-breaking rainfall in Baltimore, the region is bracing for continued stormy weather throughout the week. The National Weather Service reported that a staggering 2.28 inches of rain fell near the Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport on Tuesday, breaking the previous record of 1.73 inches set in 1897.
While the Baltimore area may not see significant additional rainfall, the National Weather Service warns that storms and showers could persist into the afternoon and evening as an atmospheric river traverses the mid-Atlantic. A coastal flood advisory was issued for shoreline areas in Baltimore, as well as Anne Arundel and Harford counties, due to the risk of elevated water levels.
In Western Maryland, the downpour has triggered significant flooding, leading to the evacuation of about 150 children and 50 adults from an elementary school in Westernport. As a response, all Allegany County Public Schools have been closed on Wednesday, and flood warnings remain in effect for Allegany and Washington counties. Authorities continue to advise local drivers to exercise caution and avoid flooded roads.
Governor Wes Moore urged Maryland residents to stay vigilant and follow local officials’ guidance during this challenging time. He emphasized the importance of safety, advising people to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and to heed any evacuation orders.
Forecasts indicate that showers will continue across the mid-Atlantic through Thursday, with certain parts of Western Maryland likely to remain at risk for flash flooding. This weather pattern is part of a broader trend; the Southeast U.S. has been experiencing heavy rainfall as a result of moisture moving from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic, often referred to as an atmospheric river. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration characterizes these phenomena as narrow regions in the atmosphere that are capable of transporting significant amounts of moisture.
In summary, the Baltimore area is navigating through an unusual weather pattern that has led to both historical rainfall and significant safety concerns. It is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community preparedness in the face of such events.