Early heat wave could bring near-record temperatures, followed by storms

Maryland is getting a taste of summer heat.

Temperatures will reach the upper 90s across much of the state as part of an early-season heat wave moving through the eastern U.S. The Baltimore area could see a high of 97 on Tuesday, nearing the record high temperature of 98 for this time of year in 1962, according to the National Weather Service.

The stint of hot weather will continue through Wednesday morning, with temperatures hovering in the mid 90s. A cold front will take over starting Wednesday afternoon.

Thunderstorms are expected to move through the region in the evening, and rain should stick around through Thursday, according to the weather service. Expect Memorial Day weekend to be as rainy, with temperatures dropping to the lower 60s and 70s.

Parts of Maryland are also under a Code Orange air quality alert for Tuesday as the air pollution concentration in the region could be unhealthy for sensitive groups, said Luis Rosa, a meteorologist for the weather service’s Baltimore/Washington office.

Baltimore officially entered Code Red Extreme Heat season over the weekend, city officials announced on May 14. The city’s commissioner of health will issue a Code Red Extreme Heat alert whenever the forecasted heat index — that is, the air temperature and relative humidity combined — is greater than or equal to 105 degrees.

There were 14 extreme heat days in Baltimore during the 2025 heat season and eight heat-related deaths.

City officials will conduct targeted outreach for populations at high risk of extreme heat-related illness, including children, the elderly and those who are pregnant or unhoused.

During hot days, residents should drink plenty of water, reduce outside activities and seek relief in air-conditioned locations.