Record Heat Grips Baltimore Through Thursday

Increased risk of brush fires due to dry conditions and gusty winds

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:41am

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a scorching, hazy horizon under a blazing sun, conveying the overwhelming, sublime scale of the heat wave through dramatic lighting and deep perspective.The relentless heat wave gripping Baltimore serves as a sobering reminder of the growing threat of extreme weather events driven by climate change.Baltimore Today

A dangerous heat wave is expected to hit Baltimore, with record-breaking temperatures forecast for Wednesday and Thursday. The hot, dry, and windy conditions will also heighten the risk of brush fires across the region. While the heat backs off by the weekend, the weather will remain unseasonably warm with a chance of showers on Friday.

Why it matters

Extreme heat waves can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. The combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds also creates ideal conditions for brush fires to start and spread rapidly, threatening homes and businesses. Local officials may need to issue burn bans and take other precautions to protect public safety.

The details

Temperatures are forecast to reach the lower 90s on both Wednesday and Thursday, shattering previous record highs. Despite the extreme heat, humidity levels will remain low, making the conditions somewhat more tolerable. However, the ongoing moderate drought and gusty winds will significantly increase the risk of brush fires starting and spreading quickly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged during this period.

  • Record high temperatures are likely on Wednesday, April 15, with a forecast high of 92°F, surpassing the previous record of 88°F set in 1941.
  • Thursday, April 16, is also expected to see record-breaking heat, with a forecast high of 92°F, exceeding the previous record of 90°F set in 2012.
  • The hot, dry, and windy conditions will persist through Saturday, April 18, before a cooldown arrives on Sunday, April 19.

The players

BWI Marshall

The weather observation station at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, which is used to track record high temperatures for the region.

WJZ First Alert Weather Team

The meteorological team at CBS affiliate WJZ-TV in Baltimore, who are providing the weather forecasts and predictions for the heat wave.

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What they’re saying

“Record breaking heat in Baltimore is likely Wednesday and Thursday.”

— Steven Sosna, Author

What’s next

Local authorities may need to issue burn bans and take other precautions to mitigate the increased fire risk during the heat wave. Residents should limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.

The takeaway

This heat wave serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat of extreme weather events driven by climate change. As temperatures continue to rise, communities must be prepared to protect public health and safety, while also taking steps to address the underlying causes of global warming.