Cooler Weather Ahead Before Easter Rain and Thunderstorms

A cold front will bring a brief cooldown before temperatures heat up again this weekend.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:23am

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After a warm day on Wednesday that nearly broke a temperature record, the Baltimore region will see much cooler weather on Thursday as a cold front moves through. Temperatures will drop about 30 degrees from Wednesday's high of 87°F. However, the cooler air won't last long, as temperatures are expected to rebound into the 80s on Friday and Saturday. The warmer weather will be short-lived, though, as a storm system is forecast to bring rain and thunderstorms to the area on Easter Sunday.

Why it matters

The fluctuating temperatures and incoming storm system highlight the unpredictable nature of spring weather in the Mid-Atlantic region. Residents will need to stay vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing conditions over the next several days.

The details

Thursday's high temperature is expected to occur at midnight, with daytime highs only reaching the mid-50s. This is a similar pattern to what the region experienced last week. The storm system that will bring severe weather to the Chicago area on Thursday is then forecast to shift eastward, bringing the threat of rain and thunderstorms to the Baltimore region on Easter Sunday. Forecasters are warning of the potential for strong storms and even isolated tornadoes with this system.

  • Yesterday, Wednesday, April 1, the high temperature reached 87°F, just 1 degree shy of the record.
  • On Thursday, April 2, temperatures will be noticeably cooler, with highs only reaching the mid-50s.
  • Temperatures are expected to rebound into the 80s on Friday, April 3, and Saturday, April 4.
  • Rain and thunderstorms are forecast to arrive on Easter Sunday, April 5.

The players

NOAA

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the federal agency that monitors and predicts weather and climate conditions.

Wisp Resort

A ski resort located in Western Maryland that has been reporting on its seasonal snowfall totals.

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What they’re saying

“My goal is to Make You Aware So You Can Prepare AND NEVER TO SCARE!”

— Justin Berk, Meteorologist

What’s next

Forecasters will continue to monitor the storm system and provide updates on the potential for severe weather on Easter Sunday.

The takeaway

Spring weather in the Baltimore region can be highly variable, with rapid temperature swings and the potential for severe storms. Residents should stay informed and prepared for changing conditions in the days ahead.