Baltimore, Maryland — Memorial Day weekend in Maryland is shaping up to feel more like early spring than the unofficial start of summer, as unusually cool temperatures and widespread rain are expected to impact outdoor plans across the state.
After strong to severe storms swept through the region earlier in the week, a cold front has now moved south of the Baltimore metro area, bringing chilly air, steady rain and breezy conditions behind it.
Cool and Rainy Conditions Settle Across Maryland
Forecasters say the gloomy weather pattern will continue through the end of the workweek, with rain arriving earlier Friday morning compared to previous days.
Residents across much of Maryland are expected to wake up to showers after a night of nearly continuous rainfall.
According to the forecast, “The wet and gloomy continues through the final day of the workweek.”
Rain is expected to continue on and off throughout Friday, while temperatures remain stuck mainly in the 50s across many areas, creating unusually cold conditions for late May.
Meteorologists are warning residents to prepare for damp and chilly conditions before heading outside.
“You’ll want a jacket.”
Flooding and Ponding Possible in Some Areas
Although the rainfall is not expected to become extremely intense, the extended duration of steady showers could still create travel issues and minor flooding concerns.
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Forecasters noted that because the rain may fall consistently for several hours, drivers could begin seeing more runoff and ponding on roads by Friday evening and overnight.
The ongoing rainfall could also create slippery travel conditions heading into one of the busiest holiday travel weekends of the year.
Officials are encouraging residents to use caution on the roads, especially during periods of reduced visibility and standing water.
Saturday Expected to Be the Wettest Day
Outdoor plans for Memorial Day weekend may face the greatest disruption on Saturday, which is currently expected to be the wettest day of the holiday stretch.
Weather experts say periods of steady rain are likely throughout the day, with occasional heavier downpours also possible.
“Saturday is shaping up to be cool and wet.”
Forecasters are predicting an additional 2 to 3 inches of rain could fall between Thursday evening and Sunday morning.
While the rain may be frustrating for holiday plans, officials noted that the moisture will provide much-needed relief for areas currently experiencing severe drought conditions.
Conditions Improve Slightly by Sunday and Memorial Day
The forecast does show some improvement later in the holiday weekend. Rain is expected to become more scattered and showery by Sunday and Memorial Day, allowing for longer dry periods and slightly better outdoor conditions.
Temperatures are also expected to rebound somewhat after the chilly start to the weekend.
Forecasters say afternoon highs should climb back into the upper 60s and lower 70s, making conditions feel a little more seasonable by the end of the holiday period.
Still, weather experts advise Maryland residents to keep umbrellas nearby and stay updated on changing conditions before making outdoor plans.
For many across the state, this Memorial Day weekend may involve swapping beach weather and cookouts for rain jackets and indoor activities.
How are the rainy Memorial Day forecasts affecting your weekend plans? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
