Posted on 03/15/26
Baltimore, MD – Mar. 15, 2026 – Maryland officials are preparing for severe weather expected Monday across parts of the state. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has declared a State of Preparedness ahead of the forecast.
Due to the impending storms, Baltimore County Public Schools will close three hours early on Monday.
Meteorologists note that Maryland last saw a similar setup in 2012, when 13 tornadoes struck the state on June 1, followed 28 days later by the powerful Derecho that produced straight-line winds of 70–80 mph across the region. While the upcoming event may not be classified as an official Derecho, forecasters say it may look and feel similar to those who experienced that storm.
For central Maryland, including Baltimore City and Baltimore County, the period of highest impacts is currently expected between approximately 12 PM and 7 PM Monday, though the exact timing may change as conditions are reassessed.
Forecast guidance currently indicates:
Highest tornado risk: as early as 1 PM through approximately 6 PM, though this estimate may change as the event unfolds.
Strong damaging winds: winds may begin increasing late morning, with gusts possibly reaching 60–70 mph after 2 PM and continuing until about 7 PM. Higher gusts are possible in areas experiencing severe storms.
Severe storms, heavy rain, or hail: possible between roughly 11 AM and 6 PM, with earlier development possible in some areas.
Officials say the timing remains subject to change as weather models are reassessed closer to the event.