Heavy downpours drenched Maryland on Wednesday, triggering flash flood warnings, toppling trees and delaying the Orioles game at Camden Yards.
Northern Baltimore County bore the brunt, with roughly 4 inches of rain falling in just a few hours, according to Luis Rosa of the Baltimore/Washington field office of the National Weather Service. The fast-moving system also disrupted transit: the Harbor Connector ferry was suspended and the Maryland Transit Administration’s CityLink 54 detours remained in place until about 7:30 a.m. Thursday after a tree came down near McClean Boulevard and Perring Parkway. At Camden Yards, the first pitch against the Seattle Mariners was pushed back to 8:15 p.m.
Forecasters warn that lingering showers could continue Wednesday night, with fog possible as temperatures rise into the evening. On Thursday, showers and thunderstorms were likely around 2 p.m., though Rosa noted the rain should be less intense than Wednesday. Temperatures on both days are expected to stay in the 90s, with heat index values approaching 100 degrees.
The rainfall comes on the heels of a very wet July that featured severe storms, flooding and power outages, followed weeks of heavy rain. The month ended with flash flooding that submerged vehicles and contributed to a teen’s death in Carroll County. NWS meteorologist Anna Stuck noted July saw about 5.75 inches of rain, above the typical 4.8 inches. August has been relatively dry so far, at about 1.65 inches below normal, Stuck said, so Wednesday’s rain helps balance the rainfall deficit. The NWS forecast calls for mostly clear skies and sunny weather after Thursday.
Updated information: The article has been revised to reflect ongoing conditions and delays.
Summary and added value:
– This storm system delivered a rare mid-summer downpour for parts of Maryland, highlighting how quickly weather can shift in the region.
– In addition to travel disruptions and a late game, residents should remain cautious of residual flood risks, especially on roadways that may still be slick or waterlogged.
– The rain provides a counterbalance to an overall dry August, potentially easing dry spells and reducing heat-related stress in the coming days.
– For readers planning activities, expect hot and humid conditions with a chance of additional showers Thursday afternoon, followed by improving weather later in the week.
Optional note for readers: If you’re traveling, allow extra time and avoid driving through flooded roads. Stay tuned to local alerts for any updates on flood warnings or transit detours. A hopeful takeaway is that after Thursday’s unsettled weather, calmer and sunnier conditions are anticipated, offering relief from the heat.