Maryland faces dangerous heat Friday with threat of severe storms and 60 mph winds

The days-long heat advisory and severe storm threat are not expected to let up on Friday.

High temperatures are expected to come just below 100 degrees, with the heat index hitting 105 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. The Baltimore area will remain under a heat advisory, said Jeremy Geiger, a meteorologist for the NWS Baltimore/Washington office.

Geiger said the severe storm risk should be “earlier than yesterday,” around 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. Southern Maryland and the Washington, D.C., area are more likely to get hit with the damaging 60-70 mph wind gusts, he said.

Thunderstorms are expected be more scattered this afternoon rather than the line of storms experienced across Maryland on Thursday evening, Geiger said. The storms could bring brief heavy rain, large hail and lightning.

The Baltimore City Health Commissioner issued a "Code Red Extreme Heat Alert“ on Thursday through Friday. The status opens up cooling centers and extends hours at city pools for those experiencing homelessness to cool off during days where the heat index hits 105 degrees or above.

Those celebrating at the Baltimore Pride Parade on Saturday should have better luck. Severe storms are unlikely, though it will still be hot outside. If you are sensitive to heat, try to stay inside as much as possible and drink plenty of water.