Maryland Braces for Monday Storms: Damaging Winds & Flooding Threat
Severe Storms Heading for Baltimore: What You Need to Know for Monday
Breaking Weather Alert
A Tornado Warning was issued earlier today for parts of Western Maryland (Garrett and Allegany counties). While that warning has expired, it’s a sign that the atmosphere is primed for strong storms. The Baltimore metro area is now in the crosshairs for Monday afternoon and evening.
IMPORTANT: This is an "Alert Day" — meaning there’s a threat of extreme, severe, and possibly life-threatening weather. This isn’t just a disruption to your routine; it’s a safety concern.
When Will the Storms Arrive?
| Time | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Morning | Dry, hot, and humid — the calm before the storm |
| Afternoon (after 2 PM) | Storms fire up in Frederick County and areas west |
| 4 PM – 8 PM | Peak threat for Baltimore metro — right during evening commute |
| Monday Night | Storms gradually wind down, but stay alert |
Meteorologist Tony Pann says: If storms hold together moving through Ohio and West Virginia, they could reach Baltimore by the evening commute.
What Kind of Severe Weather?
The Storm Prediction Center has placed northern Maryland counties (bordering PA) under a "Scattered Risk" (Level 2 out of 5). Here are the main threats:
- Damaging Winds — Biggest concern — gusts strong enough to knock down trees and power lines
- Heavy Downpours — Flash flooding possible, especially in low-lying areas
- Large Hail — Isolated reports possible
- Tornadoes — Low chance, but not zero (hence the earlier warning in Western MD)
This Isn’t a One-Day Event
| Day | Storm Chance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | High | Peak severe threat 4–8 PM |
| Tuesday | High | May be even more widespread than Monday |
| Wednesday | Moderate | Storm chances continue |
| Thursday–Saturday | Low | Finally a break! Cold front drops highs to low/mid 80s |
How to Stay Safe: Your Action Plan
1. Before the Storms (Now – 3 PM)
- Download the WBAL-TV 11 News app and turn on push alerts for warnings
- Charge your phone and any portable batteries
- Secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, and loose items
- Know where your safe shelter is (interior room, lowest floor, away from windows)
2. During the Storms (4 PM – 8 PM)
- Stay OFF the roads if possible — this is rush hour + severe weather = dangerous combo
- Monitor WBAL-TV 11 News, NOAA Weather Radio, or the app for real-time warnings
- If a Tornado Warning is issued for your location: Go to your safe place immediately
3. After the Storm Passes
- Never touch downed power lines — even if they look dead. Call BGE at 877-778-2222
- Watch for weakened tree limbs that could fall later
- Share photos/videos safely with WBAL-TV (they may feature them on air!)
Alert Day vs. Impact Day: Know the Difference
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Impact Day | Weather will disrupt your routine (commute delays, outdoor plans canceled) |
| Alert Day | Threat of extreme, severe, life-threatening weather — This is what Monday is |
Power Outage Prep
BGE warns that falling tree limbs on power lines are the main outage cause. Be ready:
- Report outages: BGE Outage Map | Call 877-778-2222
- Report downed lines: Same number — never approach them
- Prep now: Flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable food, medications
Your Weather Toolkit (All Free)
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| WBAL-TV 11 News App (push alerts!) | Download |
| Live Radar & Forecast | WBAL Weather |
| Current Alerts | Weather Advisories |
| School/Business Closings | Closings/Delays |
| BGE Outage Map | BGE.com |
Summary: 5 Key Takeaways
- Monday 4–8 PM = Highest Risk for Baltimore metro — damaging winds #1 threat
- This is an ALERT DAY — not just an inconvenience, a potential danger
- Storms continue Tuesday & Wednesday — don’t let your guard down after Monday
- Relief arrives late week — highs in the low 80s by Friday/Saturday
- Your phone is your best tool — get the app, enable alerts, stay informed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between a Watch and a Warning?
A: A Watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather (be prepared). A Warning means severe weather is happening or imminent (take action NOW). Today’s Tornado Warning in Western MD meant rotation was detected on radar.
Q: Should I cancel my evening plans?
A: If they involve being on the road 4–8 PM or outdoors — yes, strongly consider it. If you’re already home in a sturdy building, just stay alert and have a way to get warnings.
Q: What does "Scattered Risk (Level 2)" mean?
A: It’s the Storm Prediction Center’s 5-level scale. Level 2 means scattered severe storms possible — not everyone gets hit, but those that do could see damaging winds, hail, or a brief tornado.
Q: How do I know if a Tornado Warning is issued for MY neighborhood?
A: Push alerts on the WBAL app are fastest. Also: NOAA Weather Radio, WBAL-TV 11 on air, and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone (the loud alarm ones).
Q: When will the humidity finally break?
A: A cold front moves through later this week. By Friday and Saturday, highs drop to the low/mid 80s with much lower humidity — the first real taste of fall!
Stay safe, Baltimore. We’ll get through this stormy stretch together — and cooler, calmer days are coming!
Article based on WBAL-TV 11 Weather Team coverage. For live updates, visit wbaltv.com/weather or download the WBAL-TV 11 News app.