Thunderstorms and heat that feels over 100 degrees roll into Maryland

A wave of thunderstorms and extra hot days is slated to roll in by the end of the week.

The National Weather Service issued a hazardous weather alert for parts of Maryland covering the Chesapeake Bay, Tidal Potomac River and I-95 corridor, as well as parts of northern Virginia and D.C.

Forecasts from the weather service show hot and humid conditions will return to the city on Wednesday, with the peak heat index — the “feels like” with air temperature and relative humidity combined — reaching as high as 105 degrees between Thursday and Friday.

The extreme heat will be accompanied by a slew of thunderstorms that could potentially bring large hail and damaging winds, according to Cody Ledbetter, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service.

Showers are expected to begin Wednesday morning as heavy downpours and could impact the morning commute.

The heat wave, the NWS said, is being considered “the most significant heat” so far this year for many locales. It starts Wednesday and is anticipated to break over the weekend.

“It’s going to be a nice weekend, even if it’s pretty warm, but the peak of this will be kind of tomorrow through Friday,” Ledbetter said.

If air temperatures and humidity reach that 105 degree threshold or surpass it, that would trigger a code red in Baltimore.

The city would open cooling centers for those seeking a place to escape the heat and the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services would begin distributing water to those experiencing homelessness.

Baltimore declared the start of the Code Red Extreme Heat season in May. Cooling centers have been made available to residents, as have public pools.

To stay cool during this stretch of heat, city officials advise residents to do the following:

• Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
• If you are outside, stick to shaded areas.
• Avoid taking shelter in closed vehicles.
• Take refuge at a day shelter or public library.