Hold on to your umbrellas and cancel those evening walks—Wednesday is bringing in a loud, wet, and windy disruption across Baltimore, and if you’re not prepared, it could catch you off guard. Forecasters are warning that the city is in for periods of steady rain, isolated thunderstorms, and wind gusts up to 22 mph, making for a slick and potentially chaotic midweek commute.
Whether you’re heading to work or running errands, expect your day to get off track as weather conditions deteriorate quickly by mid-morning and worsen into the afternoon. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead of the storm.
When and Where the Storms Will Hit
Wednesday Morning (May 21):
The day may begin relatively calm, but clouds will thicken quickly. By late morning, the first bands of rain are expected to move in from the south, ushering in a gray, soggy atmosphere.
Afternoon to Evening:
This is when the worst of the weather will likely arrive. Rain becomes more widespread, and isolated thunderstorms may pop up after 2 PM. Winds will pick up significantly, blowing from the southeast at 11–14 mph, with gusts up to 22 mph, enough to rattle windows and send unsecured objects tumbling.
Wednesday Night:
Rain and storm activity continue into the evening hours, with the potential for localized downpours before midnight. Lows will dip to around 58°F, and winds, though slightly reduced, may still gust up to 18 mph.
How This Weather Could Affect You
This isn’t just a gentle spring rain—this is active, impactful weather that will affect multiple aspects of daily life in Baltimore:
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Traffic & Travel Delays: With steady rain falling during peak afternoon and evening drive times, expect slick roads, slower commutes, and possible fender benders. Major routes like I-95 and I-695 could become congested quickly.
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Power Interruptions: Gusts around 20+ mph can knock down branches, especially after several days of damp soil and weakened roots. Scattered power outages are possible, especially if storms become more intense.
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Outdoor Plans Ruined: If you were thinking of walking the dog, going for a jog, or attending an outdoor event—consider rescheduling or moving it indoors.
Looking Ahead: What Comes After the Storm
Thursday (May 22):
The rain doesn’t exit right away. Expect lingering showers throughout the day with temperatures rising slightly to the low 70s. It won’t be stormy, but it will remain damp and overcast.
Friday (May 23):
Partly sunny with a chance of pop-up showers, high near 65°F. Still on the cool side for late May.
Saturday & Sunday (May 24–25):
Conditions begin to improve, with sunshine breaking through by the weekend. Temperatures will finally warm into the low 70s, offering a more pleasant outlook for Memorial Day festivities.
Memorial Day Monday (May 26):
The best weather of the week may come just in time for your long weekend. Sunny, warm, and dry with highs around 75°F—a perfect finish to a stormy stretch.
Final Tips to Stay Safe and Dry
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Pack rain gear before leaving the house Wednesday—don’t be fooled by any morning calm.
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Avoid parking under trees or near loose structures that could be affected by wind gusts.
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Charge phones and devices in advance in case of power flickers.
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Watch for flooding in underpasses or poorly drained intersections—especially during downpours.
Bottom Line: Baltimore’s Wednesday Is Wet, Windy, and Worrisome
With storms rolling in fast and winds picking up, Baltimore is in for a loud and messy Wednesday. Expect delays, dress for rain, and plan ahead—because once it starts, it’s not letting up until late.
