Maryland is experiencing a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures in the Baltimore area soaring to 102 degrees on Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning, indicating that the heat index will feel as high as 111 degrees.
In addition to the oppressive heat, the region is at risk for severe thunderstorms later in the day. Meteorologist Brian LaSorsa noted that the atmosphere holds significant energy, which could lead to wind gusts reaching 70 mph starting around 4 p.m. and lasting until 8 p.m.
The Fourth of July holiday is expected to be marked by high humidity and continued heat, with thunderstorms likely to disrupt celebrations. Some storms may be severe, potentially producing damaging winds.
On Saturday, Baltimore was placed under a code orange air quality alert, advising sensitive individuals to remain indoors. Nearby suburbs in Washington, D.C., faced even harsher conditions with a code red alert for unhealthy air quality. The Maryland Department of the Environment cautioned that air quality could further deteriorate as fireworks displays commence in the region.
The extreme temperatures have already caused disruptions, including delays and cancellations of several Amtrak trains in the Northeast due to “temperature-related conditions.” Various Fourth of July events have also been canceled or postponed, including celebrations in Takoma Park, Laurel, and Severna Park, which have rescheduled for July 11. The Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival has pushed its start time to 5 p.m. to ensure the safety of attendees.
Emergency services are reporting an increase in heat-related illnesses. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and be aware of symptoms such as muscle spasms, nausea, and disorientation. To combat the heat, Baltimore has activated cooling centers and extended hours at city pools, while Anne Arundel County has also increased access to its cooling facilities.
For a complete list of cooling centers throughout Maryland, residents can visit the Maryland Department of Health’s website.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
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