Baltimore braces for record-breaking heat wave

Temperatures expected to soar into the 90s as Maryland legislature wraps up session

Apr. 13, 2026 at 12:33pm

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A vast, majestic landscape painting depicting a hazy, sun-drenched cityscape of Baltimore's skyline shrouded in a shimmering heat haze, with the towering skyscrapers and landmarks dwarfed by the overwhelming scale of the oppressive, cloudless sky.As a record-breaking heat wave bears down on Baltimore, the city's iconic skyline is enveloped in a stifling, atmospheric haze.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore region is gearing up for a potentially record-breaking heat wave this week, with temperatures forecast to reach the mid-90s on Monday, April 13th. The unseasonably hot weather comes as the Maryland State Legislature is set to adjourn for the year, marking the final day of their legislative session.

Why it matters

Extreme heat events can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. The timing of this heat wave also coincides with the end of the state's legislative session, which could impact the ability of lawmakers to address climate change and prepare communities for future extreme weather.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for the Baltimore metro area, with temperatures expected to climb into the mid-90s on Monday and remain in the low 90s through Wednesday. Meteorologists say this could break several daily high temperature records for the region. The heat wave comes as the Maryland General Assembly is set to adjourn on Monday, wrapping up their annual legislative session.

  • The excessive heat warning is in effect from 11am on Monday, April 13th through 8pm on Wednesday, April 15th.
  • The Maryland State Legislature is scheduled to adjourn on Monday, April 13th, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

Maryland General Assembly

The state legislature of Maryland, consisting of the Maryland Senate and the Maryland House of Delegates.

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What they’re saying

“We're urging all residents to take this heat wave seriously and take steps to stay cool and hydrated over the next few days.”

— Sarah Johnson, Meteorologist, National Weather Service

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and may extend the excessive heat warning if the high temperatures persist.

The takeaway

This extreme heat event highlights the growing threat of climate change and the need for policymakers to prioritize measures that protect vulnerable communities and build resilience to future extreme weather.